
Class. 
Book 



fi^a 



_tiSi 



I 



SELECTIONS 



FROM THE 



COREESPOIDENCE 



EXECUTIVE OF M¥ JERSEY, 



FROM 1776 TO 1786. 



rUBIilSHED BV ORDER OF THE LEGISLATURE. 



NEWARK, N. J. : 

PRINTED AT THE NEWARK DAILY ADVERTISER OFFICE. 

1848. 



V 






4- 



STATE OF NEW JERSEY. 



Be it Resolved by the Senate and General Assembly of the Stale of 
New Jersey. Sec. 1. That the Govemor, Secretary of State, and 
Committee on Education of the House of Assembly be authoiizecl to 
cause to be published at the expense of the State, such numl)er of 
copies as they may deem proper of all manusciipts, letters, and other 
matters now m the State Library or office of the Secretary of State, 
as they may select. That they also be authorized to have said copies 
neatly bound, and deposited with the Treasurer of this State, to be 
disposed of as may hereafter be directed by law. 

Sec. 2. And be it enacted. That the Treasurer be authorized to 
pay on warrant of the Governor, the expense mcurred in carrying the 
foregoing resolution into effect. 

Approved, March 9, 1848. ^ 



COMMITTEE: 

Hon. DANIEL HAINES. Governor. 

CHARLES G. McCHESNEY, Secretary of State. 

J. G. GOBLE, Chairman, -v 

WM. W. BENNET, 

OLIVER S. STRONG. K Committee on Education. 

M. F. CARMAN, 

J. ACKERMAN, J 



PRE F AC E. 



It is in state papers and among public records, that 
we must seek for the facts of history. From these, the 
historian draws those materials which he combines and 
arranges, until under his hand, they assume the shape 
of a narrative, at once systematic, truthful and at- 
tractive. 

The American Revolution is one of the most inte- 
resting and important events which can occupy the 
attention of a reflecting mind, whether we consider its 
more immediate or its ultimate and probable results; 
whether we view it as giving existence to a great 
RepubUc of unparalleled extent and rapid increase, or 
direct our thoughts to the influence which that republic, 
its free institutions, and its bold example, are now ex- 
erting, and are destined still further to exert, upon the 
political and social condition of the other nations of the 
world. 



11 PREFACE. 

It is well known that the State of New Jersey was 
emphatically the battle-ground of the Revolution ; none 
of the " immortal thirteen" maintained a more promi- 
nent position, or performed a greater amount of public 
duty, during that memorable era. It follows, therefore, 
that the Correspondence of the Executive, and other 
similar documents which have survived the Revolution, 
are pecuharly interesting. In consequence of the per- 
ishable nature of these manuscripts, and the loss and 
injury to which, from various causes, they are necessa- 
rily exposed in their present situation, the Legislature 
of the State have deemed it expedient to take measures 
to preserve what remained of these valuable records, 
and to collect and arrange them in such a manner, as 
to render them accessible and useful to the student of 
our revolutionary history. By a resolution of both 
Houses, which received the approval of the Governor, 
at the last session of the Legislature, it was provided, 
that the Governor, Secretary of State, and Committee 
on Education of the House of Assembly, be authorized 
to cause to be published at the expense of the State, 
such number of copies as they may deem proper, of all 
manuscripts, letters, and other matters, now in the State 
Library, or office of the Secretary of State, as they 
may select. That they also be authorized to have said 
copies neatly bound, and deposited with the Treasurer 
of this State, to be disposed of as may hereafter be 
directed by law. Under this resolution of the Legisla- 
ture, an examination of the manuscripts in question 
has been made. Upon such examination, a consider- 



PREFACE. m 

erable number of the manuscripts were found to be 
of a private nature, and these it was not thought 
worth while to pubhsh. They would only swell the 
size of the volume, without materially increasing its 
value. 

The Executive Correspondence of this State during 
the Revolutionary War, was very extensive and vo- 
luminous ; but the frequent changes of the seat of 
government, and the many accidents and disasters 
necessarily connected with such a warfare as that of 
which our State was the principal theatre, have scat- 
tered many of the papers. Not a few of them are 
lost: and of those which remain, some of them are mu- 
tilated and defaced, partly because they have not been 
kept with proper care, and partly from the disposition 
occasionally evinced by those who have inspected these 
precious remains of the past, to appropriate to them- 
selves certain portions of the manuscripts as relics of 
the men and events of revolutionary times. In their 
present condition, however, these papers, though in 
many instances disconnected and imperfect, so as not 
to form a continuous chain of public documents, (for 
many links are wanting,) nevertheless contain much 
valuable information, and will be found amply to repay 
the perusal of any one to whom the incidents of the 
revolutionary war, the efforts, the sacrifices, and the 
privations of a patriot ancestry, in their successful 
struggle for the rights of freemen, furnish matter for 
interesting investigation, grateful emotion, and improv- 
ing reflection. This volume, therefore, is given to the 



IV PREFACE. 

world in the hope that its contents will not be found 
wholly to disappoint public expectation, either in the 
historical importance of the documents themselves, or 
the degree of care taken in their selection and arrange- 
ment for the press. 

Newark, Dec. 28, 1848. 



CONTENTS. 



J-' 7b. PAGE. 

February 21. — John Smyth, Treasurer of the Province of East 
Jersey, to Samuel Tucker, President of Provincial Congress 
— Relating to his continuance in office, - - - 1 

February 22. — Same to the same, - - - - 2 

Februa7-y 26. — Same to the same, - - - - 3 

March 26. — Resolves of the Committee of Safety — to raise three 

Battalions of Militia for the defence of New York, - 4 

June 18. — The President of the Continental Congress to the Con- 
vention of New Jersey — Requesting that the General at 
New York may be empowered to call for such militia to his 
aid from New Jersey as he may deem necessary, - - 6 

August 8. — General commanding at New York to the President 
of the Provincial Congress— Relating to suspicious persons, 
and calling for reinforcements, - - - - 7 

September 15. — Brig. Gen. Matthias Williamson at Elizabethtown 
to the Governor — Accepting his commission, and referring 
to complaints of the militia, - - - - 9 

September 16. — John DeHart, of Elizabethtown, to the Legisla- 
ture — Acknowledging his election to the Chief Justiceship 
of New Jersey, - - - - - - 11 

Se-ptember 19. — Dep. Qr. Mast. Gen. Clement Biddle, at Perth 
Amboy, to the Governor — Relating to supplies of grain 
required for the army, - - - - 1 1 

September 30. — Archibald Kennedy at Morristown to the Gov- 
ernor — Asking to be relieved on parole, from confinement, - 12 

October 2. — The President of Continental Congress at Philadel- 
phia to the Assembly of New Jersey — Relating to the ap- 
pointment of Surgeons, and the filling of vacancies in 
Congress, - - - - - - 13 

October 9. — The same to the same — Relating to the pay of the 
troops, and requesting the appointment of a Committee to 
visit the army, and secure the re-enlistment of the men from 
New Jersey, - - - - - - 14 

October 18. — Col. William Maxwell, at Point Independence, to 
the Governor, Council, and Assembly, of New Jersey — 
Stating the unwillingness of the men to re-enlist — mention- 
ing Col. Shrieve — Major Grey — Capt. Shute — Capt. Scott, 15 

November 12. — The President of the Continental Congress to 
Governor Livingston — Recommending adoption of Measures 
to prevent intercourse with the Enemy, - - - 18 



VI, CONTENTS. 

1776. PAGE. 

November 19. — George Taylor of Monmouth to John Coven- 
hoven, Member of the Assembly — Relating to his accept- 
ance of a Colonel's Commission, &c. - - - 18 

November 21. — S. Forman to Joseph Holmes, Member of Assem- 
bly — Referring to the Refusal of Col. Taylor to take oath 
of Office, - - - - - - - 19 

December — . — Colonel Wm. DeHart to the Governor — Relating 

to the filling up of Vacancies in his Regiment, dtc. - 20 

December 30. — The President of Continental Congress to the 
Governor — Covering Resolves conferring more ample pow- 
ers on the Military Department, - - - - 21 

1777. 

January 28. — Col. Oliver Spencer at Elizabethtown to 
Stephen Crane of the Assembly — Giving a list of the Com- 
missions wanted in his Battalion, - - - - 22 

January 31. — General Washington at Morristown to the Legisla- 
ture — Calling for the passage of Laws to prevent Desertion, 23 

February 5. — Colonel David Chambers, at Raritan, to John Hart, 
Speaker of the Assembly — Recommending persons as Field 
Officers in his Battalion, - - - - - 24 

February 5. — Jonathan D. Sergeant, Delegate to the Continental 
Congress at Baltimore, to John Hart, Speaker, &c. — Desi- 
ring some other person to be appointed in his place, - 24 

February 8. — Abraham Clark, Delegate to the Continental Con- 
gress, at Baltimore, to John Hart, Speaker, &c. — Giving 
information of the action of some of the Colonies in regu- 
lating prices — Condemning a proclamation of Washington 
— Referring to the Tories of Maryland — The contemplated 
removal of Congress, &:c., - - - - 25 

February 9. — James Sullivan, Chairman of a Committee of Mas- 
sachusetts House of Representatives, to the Governor — 
Enclosing an act of the Legislature for regulating prices, 
and a resolution preventing the exportation of sundry 
articles, - - - . . . - 28 

February 12. — General Phil. Dickinson, at Raritan, to the Gov- 
ernor — Desiring to be released from his command, - 30 

March 17. — Colonel Israel Shrieve, at Princeton, to the Governor 
— Asking for his certificate for the Staff Officers of his 
Regiment, - - . . . - 31 

March 18. — Governor Livingston to Daniel Rittenhouse, Vice 
President of Pennsylvania Council of Safety — Sending five 
prisoners taken at Squam Beach, - - . - 32 

March 27. — Colonel John Bull, at Waterfield, to the Governor — 
Informing him of the pay received by laborejs and soldiers 
in Pennsylvania, - - . . - 33 



CONTENTS. VU 

1777. PAGE. 

March 28. — James Wilson, at Philadelphia, to the Governor — 
Advising the apprehension of John Curlis, of Shrewsbury, 
for intercepting a dispatch of General Washington, - 34 

March 26 to April 3. — Minutes of the Commissioners of New 
York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Delaware, Maryland and 
Virginia, met at Yorktown to adopt a system for regulating 
the price of labor, of goods imported, &ic., - - 34 

April 1. — General Nathaniel Heard, on the Raritan, to the Gov- 
ernor — Enclosing a letter from Colonel Beavers, asking for 
instructions, &c., - - - - - - 45 

March 29. — Colonel Joseph Beavers to General Heard — Refer- 
ring to neglect of duty by his officers, - - - 46 

April 5. — Charles Pettit, Secretary of the Province under the 
Royal government, to Governor Livingston — Referring to 
the removal of the Records of the State, - - - 47 

April 7. — Silas Condict, at Morristown, to the Governor — Ac- 
cepting an appointment as one of the Council of Safety, &c. 49 

April 8. — William Smith and Benjamin Rumsey, at Philadelphia, 

to the Governor — Respecting a Mr. Campbell, - - 50 

April 10. — Examination of Jesse Woodward, of Monmouth 

Count}^, - . - - - - - 51 

April 10. — Francis Wade, at Allentown, to the Governor — En- 
closing the foregoing, - - - - - 53 

April 16. — General Washington to the Governor — Referring to 

Col. Duyckinck then in confinement, - - - 54 

April — . — Francis Hopkinson, at Philadelphia, to the Governor 

— Relating to the apprehension of John Curlis, - - 56 

April 25. — General Israel Putnam to the Governor — Accompany- 
ing several prisoners, - - - - -57 

April 25. — Rev. A. McWhorter and Elisha Boudinot of Newark 
to the Governor — Recommending certain persons as officers 
of the Militia, - - - - - - 58 

May 7. — Major John Taylor, commanding at Cranberry, to the 

Governor — Sending sundry prisoners, - - - 59 

May 15. — The same to the same — Relating to prisoners sent, - 60 

May 19. — Colonel David Brearley, Jr., to the Governor — Send- 
ing a prisoner, - - - - - - 60 

June 12. — John Cox and Elijah Clark, at Egg Harbor, to the 
President of the Council of Safety — Detailing the proceed- 
ings of an enemy's vessel, &c., - - - - 61 

June 12. — The President of the Continental Congress to the Gov- 
ernor — Calling for 500 men to be sent to Billingsport, - 63 



Vlll CONTENTS. 

1777. PAGK. 

June 14. — Robert Morris, Judge of the Supreme Court, to the 
Governor — Relathig to the proceedings of the Court at 
Newton, Sussex Co., - - - - - 63 

June 15. — Charles Pettit, at Burlington, to the Governor — Rela- 
ting to Courts — and the movements of the enemy, - - 67 

June 17. — General Nathaniel Heard, at Ponipton, to the Council 

of Safety, - - - - - - 69 

June 19. — Charles Pettit, at Burlington, to the Governor — Re- 
commending a movement of militia towards the coast — 
Giving his views as to the state of the government, the 
militia, &c., - - - - - - - 69 

June 21. — Joseph Hedden, Jr., of Newark, to the Governor — 
Transmitting the names of women whose husbands were 
with the enemy — Recommending Elisha Boudinot for De- 
puty Surrogate, dec, - - - - - 72 

June 26. — General Phil. Dickinson to the Governor — Accepting 

the appointment of Major General, &;c., - - - 73 

June 30. — Major Samuel Hayes, of Newark, to the Governor — 
Giving the names of women sent to New York with their 
children, - - - - - - - 75 

J^me 30. — Joseph Hedden, Jr., to the Governor — Relating to the 

prisoners in jail at Newark, - - - - 76 

June 30. — Chief Justice John C. Symmes, at Newton, to the 

Governor — Relating to the recapture of escaped criminals, 77 

July 1. — Joseph Hedden, Jr., at Newark, to the Governor — 

Transmitting names of prisoners and their offences, - 78 

July 2. — Brig. Gen. David Forman, at Middletown, to Edward 
Taylor — Directing him to remain on his farm at Middletown 
as a suspected person, - - - - - 80 

July 3. — Governor Livingston to General Winds — Directing him 
to detach 200 men to be employed in apprehending disaf- 
fected persons, - - - - - - 80 

July 7. — Governor Livingston to General Washington — Referring 

to the above mentioned detachment, - - - 81 

July 9.— -Joseph Hedden, Jr., of Newark, to the Governor — 
Giving the names of women whose husbands were with tlie 
enemy, - - . . . . .82 

July 21. — Same to the same — Sending sundry prisoners, «kc., - 83 

August 1. — General Phil. Dickinson, at Trenton, to the Governor 

— Recommending the raising of a troop of horse, - - 84 

August 12. — William Paterson, at Newark, to the Governor — 

Sending a Mr. Macomb arrested on suspicion, - - 86 

August 17. — Captain Webster at Piscataway, to Colonel Freling- 

huysen — Accompanying prisoners, - - - 88 



CONTENTS. IX 

Y)']'j PAGE. 

Augvst 25. — Brig. Gen. Silas Newcomb, at Woodbury, to the 
Governor — Giving an account of the apprehension of sun- 
dry persons in Cumberland county, &c., - - - 89 

August 21 — Silvanus Seely, of Elizabethtown, to the Governor, 

— Sending Benjamin Hatfield, - - - - 91 

August 21.— Captain John Craig to Colonel Frelinghuysen— 
Giving information in reference to operations in Wood- 
bridge Neck, - - - - " -92 

August 23.— Ebenezer Hazard, at Philadelphia, to the Governor 

— Relating to Andrew Buskirk, a post-rider, - - 93 

August 25. — Colonel Frederick Frelinghuysen, at Raritan, to the 
Governor — Commenting on the state of the country, the 
apparent want of loyalty in Hunterdon — Sullivan's Expedi- 
tion to Staten Island, &c. - ■ - - 94 

August 25. — Edward Taylor, of Middletown, to the Governor 

and Legislature — Relating to his Imprisonment, • - 96 

August 27. — List of prisoners ordered to Princeton from Eliza- 
bethtown, by Col. F. Frelinghuysen, - - - 98 

September 5. — The President of Continental Congress at Phila- 
delphia, to the Governor — Comphmentary to the Militia of 
New Jersey, &c., - - - - - - 98 

September 12 — The same to the same — CaUing out four thousand 

of the Jersey militia, - - - - - 99 

September 20. — The Governor, at Haddonfield, to Brig. Gen. 
Newcomb — Ordering the Militia of Woodbury to march 
against the enemy, ... - - 100 

October 4. — The Governor, at Princeton, to the President of the 
Continental Congress — Remonstrating against the removal 
into New Jersey of Governor Penn and Chief Justice 
Chew, of Pennsylvania, &;c., .... 101 

October 4. — Colonel Wm. Maxwell, to the Governor — Relating 

to the insufficiency of the clothing furnished the troops, - 103 

October 6. — General Washington, at Philadelphia, to General 
Forman — Authorizing the discharge of some of the Jersey 
Mihtia, - - - - - - - 104 

October 9. — Elisha Boudinot, at Newark, to the Governor — 
Declining the appointment of Secretary to the Committee of 
Safety, ... - . - 105 

October 17. — The President of the Continental Congress to the 
Assembly' — Relating to the clothing required for the troops. 106 

October 18. — William Paterson, at Morristown, to the Governor 
— Respecting the mode of trial in case of sundry insurgents 
— Apprehensions felt at Newark about Captain Kennedy's 
course — The mode of selecting the detachment sent to the 
service in Pennsylvania — Announcing Burgoyne's Surren- 
der, &c., . - - - - - - 107 



X CONTENTS. 

1777. PAGE, 

November 20. — Jonathan Elmer, Delegate in Congress, at York- 
town, to the Speaker of the Assembly — Announcing his 
intended return to New Jersey, and commenting upon his 
pay in comparison with that of Delegates from other States, 10& 

December 23. — The President of the Continental Congress, at 
Yorktown, to the Assembly — Transmitting resolves against 
" the arts and avarice of engrossers and extortioners," &c., Ill 

1778. 

May 25. — The Board of War to the Governor — Applying for 

tlie Andover Iron Works, - - - - - 113 

May 28. — Colonel Benjamin Flower, at Lebanon, to the Gov- 
ernor — Relating to the same subject, - - - 1 14 

June 17. — The President of the Continental Congress, at York- 
town, to the Governor — Commenting upon the course of 
the enemy, calling for reinforcements, and informing him of 
an embargo laid on provisions of all kinds, ■ - 116 

June 16. — General Wm. Winds, at Elizabethtown, to the Legis- 
lature — Stating his great want of ammunition, - - 117 

July 13. — Nathaniel Scudder, of Freehold, to John Hart, 
Speaker of the Assembly — Recommending the granting of 
further powers to the Delegates in Congress as to the ratifi- 
cation of the confederation, mentioning some of the objec- 
tions, &c., - - - - - - 119 

September 10. — Quarter-Master-General Charles Pettit, at White 

Plains, to General Washington — Relating to Forage, - 123 

September 6 — Colonel Clement Biddle to Quarter-Master-Gen. 

Pettit, enclosed in the foregoing, - - . - 126 

September 29. — Governor Livingston to the Legislature — Enclo- 
sing the two foregoing letters, - - - - 128 

September 17. — Jonathan Elmer to the Legislature — Accepting 

the appointment of Delegate to Congress, - - - 128 

November 2. — Colonel Benjamin Holme, at Cumberland, to the 

Governor — Resigning his commission, - - - 129 

November 11. — Nathaniel Scudder, Gouverneur Morris and Wil- 
Ham Whipple, a Committee of Congress, at Philadelphia, to 
the Governor — Desiring enquiries to be instituted into the 
agricultural resources of the states, - - - 130 

November 11. — The same to the same — Suggesting measures to 

prevent the engrossing of supplies, - - - 132 

November II. — The same to the same — Relating to officers en- 
gaged in engrossing articles required for the public, - 133 

December 2. — P. Scull, Secretary of the Board of War, to the 
Governor — Answering complaints of a want of clothing by 
the New Jersey troops, - . - . - 134 



CONTENTS. XI 

If /if- PAGE. 

January 7. — Chief Justice John C. Symnies to the Governor — 
Detailing the cases of a criminal character which had come 
before him in Gloucester and Cumberland, - - 135 

January 14. — Colonel Clement Biddle to the Governor — Refer- 
ring to the supplies of Forage, .... 139 

January 19. — Gouverncur Morris and Wm. Whipple, a Com- 
mittee of the Continental Congress, to the Governor — Re- 
ferring to the practice of engrossing, - - - 140 

March 25. — John Fell, Delegate to Congress, at Philadelphia, to 
the Governor — Complaining of the absence of his col- 
leagues, dtc, .-...- 141 

April 17. — Memorial of the Officers of the Jersey Brigade to the 

Legislature — Asking for pay in Spanish milled dollars, &c., 143 

April 25. — General William Maxwell, at Elizabethtown, to the 
Legislature — Relating to the wants of the officers and sol- 
diers of the Jersey Brigade, - • - - 146 

April 26. — The same to the same — Commenting upon public 
affiiirs and the evils likely to result from the associations of 
Captains Kennedy and McCloud and Mrs. Chandler, - 151 

April 29. — Frederick Frelinghuysen, Delegate to the Continental 
Congress, to Baleb Camp, Speaker of the Assembly — 
Resigning his seat, - - - - - 155 

May 6. — Memorial of the Officers of the Jersey Brigade to the 

Legislature — Respecting their pay, - - - 156 

May .". — Major John N. Cunmiings and Capt. Joseph Anderson 
in behalf of their fellow officers, to the Legislature — Asking 
for the adoption of measures for their relief, - .157 

May 6. — Brig. General William Maxwell, at Elizabethtown, to 
General Washington — Referring to the complaints of the 
Officers of the first regiment, - - - - 159 

May 7. — General Washington, at Middlebrook, to Brig. General 

Maxwell — Answering the foregoing, - - - 161 

May 8. — Officers of the first regiment, at Elizabethtown, to 
General Washington — Referring to their Memorials, and 
noticing the above letter to General Maxwell, - - 164 

May 10. — General Washington to Brig. General Maxwell — Com- 
menting upon the course of the Officers, - 166 

May 22. — The Board of War to the Governor and Speaker of 
the Assembly — Giving the members, &c., of the New- 
Jersey forces in service and required, . . - 168 

June — . — General Washington, at Middlebrook, to the Governor 

— Referring to the want of wagons, - - - 172 

August 26. — The same to the same — Relating to the want of 

Clothing, . . . - - . - 173 



XU CONTENTS. 

1779. PAGE . 

September 23. — Governor Livingston to the House of Assembly 

— Answering enquiries respecting the state regiment, - 175 

September 25. — Colonel John Taylor, on Raritan, to the Gov- 
ernor — Respecting the State Regiment, - - - 177 

September 27. — General Washington, at West Point, to the 
Governor — Recommending vigorous preparations in view of 
a co-operation with an expected French squadron, • - 181 

September 27. — Enos Kelsey, at Princeton, to the Speaker of the 
Assembly — Giving an estimate of supplies required for the 
Jersey Brigade, .--.-- 183 

October 4. — George Clinton, Governor of New York, at Kings- 
ton, to the Governor — Enclosing sundrj' Resolutions of the 
Legislature of New York, ----- 185 

October 1. — Resolutions of the Legislature of New York — 
Against outrages committed upon the inhabitants of Long- 
Island, (fee. — Enclosed in the foregoing Letter, • - 186 

October 4. — General Washington, at West Point, to the Governor 
— Calling for 2000 men from New Jersey, and urging the 
necessary measures for supplying them with Provisions, - 187 

October 5. — From Wm. H. Houston, Delegate to Congress, at 
Philadelphia, to the Governor — Relating to the Recal of 
Arthur Lee, as Commisssioner at Madrid, - - - 191 

October 22-25. — Proceedings of the Legislature of New York, 
on a proposition of the Legislature of New Jersey, for a 
general regulation and limitation of Prices, - - 195 

October 25. — Pierre Van Cortlandt, President of the Senate, and 
Evert Bancker, Speaker of the Assembly of the State of 
New York, to the Governor and Speaker of the Assembly, 
— Transmitting the foregoing Proceedings, - - 198 

October 30. — Isaac Collins to the Legislative Council — In an- 
swer to a call for the author of an article signed " Cincin- 
natus," in the New Jersey Gazette, - - - 199 

November 12. — Wm. H. Houston, Delegate to Congress, at Phil- 
adelphia, to the Governor — Relating to the Finances — 
Taxes, &c. — The case of the Sloop Active, &c., - - 200 

November 22.— John Witherspoon, Nathaniel Scudder, John 
Fell, and Wm. H. Houston, Delegates in Congress, at Phil- 
adelphia, to the Governor — Referring to the Plan for the 
Limitation of Prices, - . . . 204 

December 21.— General Washington, at Morristown, to the 
Governor — Requesting the adoption of measures for calling 
out the whole Militia of the State in the most speedy manner, 206 

1780. 

February 14.— Chief Justice Symmes to the Governor — Relative 
to disagreements between the officers and men of the New 
Jersey Line as to the period of enlistments, - . 210 



CONTENTS. Xlll 

1780. PAGE. 

Fehrvary 17. — Abraham Clark, Delegate to Congress at Phila- 
delphia, to the Speaker of the Assembly — Referring to the 
Convention for regulating Prices — And subjects before 
Congress, ...... 212 

Fehrvary 20. — General Washington at Morristown to the Gov- 
ei-nor — Transmitting a return of the Quota of the Troops 
from New Jersey, .... - 207 

February 26. — The same to the same, .... 214 

March 20. — The President of Congress to the Governor — Rela- 
ting to the Act of Congress for bringing in the Continental 
Currency, ...... 215 

May 22. — Wm. H. Houston, Delegate to Congress at Philadelphia 
to the (lovernor — Relating to Measures of Finance — The 
Embargo Act, &:c. ..... 216 

June 2. — Genei-al Washington at Morristown to the Governor — 

Calling for Reinforcements, .... 219 

June 4. — Wm. H. Houston, Delegate in Congress at Philadelphia, 
to the Governor — Informing him of the Capitulation of 
Charlestown, ...... 221 

June 5. — The same to the same — Enclosing Resolutions of Con- 
gress respecting Deserters and the defence of the Interior, 224 

June 12 — Philip Schuyler, Chairman of a Committee of Con- 
gress, then at Morristown, to the Governor — Relating to 
the critical condition of affairs, .... 225 

May 25. — General Washington to a Committee of Congress — 

Enclosed in the foregoing, .... 228 

Ju7ie 15. — The President of Congress to the Governor — Renew. 

ing their application for aid, .... 231 

June 19. — John Matthews and Nathaniel Peabody, Committee of 
Co-operation at Morristown, to the Governor — Repeating 
the solicitations for assistance, and enclosing a Letter from 
General Washington, ..... 233 

June 19. — General Washington at Springfield, to the Committee 

of Co-operation — Enclosed in the foregoing, - - 235 

June 20. — The same to the same — Referring to a proposed 

System of Co-operation among the several states, - . 236 

June 23. — The same at Rockaway, to the same — Giving 
information of the movements of the enemy, and reiterating 
his wish to have the States urged to a speedy compliance 
with his requisitions, ..... 238 

June2S. — The Committee of Co-operation at Morristown, to the 

Governor — Enclosing the foregoing, . . - 239 

June 29. — The President of Congress to the Governor — Calling 

for Funds, . . . - . - 240 



xiv CONTENTS. 

1780. P\GK 

June 30. — General Washington, at Ramapaugh, to the Governor 

—Relating to the time for the arrival of the new levies, &c. 242 

July 7.— Benjamin Stoddard, Secretary of the Board of War to 
the Governor — Informing him of two guns at Carlisle 
belonging to New Jersey, .... 243 

August 16. — The Committee of Co-operation, at Camp Tappan, 

to the Governor — Calling for Supplies, - - - 244 

August 17. — General Washington, at Orange Town, to the 

Governor — Relating to the New Jersey quota of Troops, - 246 

August 19. — The Committee of Co-operation to the Governor — 
Urging more strenuous exertions to reinforce and supply 
the army, ...... 248 

August 26. — General Washington, at Bergen, to the Governor — 

Referring to the prevailing want of Provisions, - - 254 

August 27. — The same to the same — On the same subject, - 256 

September 3. — The President of Congress to the Governor — 

Respecting old and new Bills of Credit, &:c. - - 258 

September 9. — Abraham Skinner, Commissary of Prisoners, to 
the Governor — Relating to the Jersey prisoners in the hands 
of the Enemy, ...-.- 260 

September 15. — Hendrick Van Brunt, John Mercer, and Bate- 
man Lloyd, in behalf of the Jersey Prisoners of War on 
Long Island, to the Governor — Asking the attention of the 
Legislature to their wants, - - - - 261 

Without Date. — Timothy Pickering, Q. M. General, to the Legis- 
lature — Setting forth the want of Forage in the Arm}', - 264 

September 14. — The President of Congress to the Governor- — 

Requesting an immediate supply of Cattle, - - 264 

October 31. — Abraham Clark, Delegate to Congress at Philadel- 
phia, to Josiah Hornblower, Speaker of the Assembly — 
Commenting upon a Resolution granting half pay for Life 
to the officers of the Army, &c., . - . . 267 

December 4. — Judge Wm. Patterson, at Raritan, to the Legisla- 

ture — Declining the appointment of Delegate to Congress, 269 

1781. 

January 15. — The President of Congress to the Governor — 

Relating to the Financial Affairs of the country, - - 270 

February 8. — The same to the same — Transmitting Resolves of 
Congress asking for authority to levy a duty upon importa- 
tions, ....... 274 

March 23. — The same to the same — Transmitting Acts of 
Congress relating to the Currency, and an assessment of 
six millions, ---... 277 

May 14. — The same to the same — Relating to the want of 

supplies by the Army, ..... 278 



CONTENTS. XV 

1781. PAGE. 

May 24. — Abraham Clark, at Trenton, to the Chairman of the 
Joint Meeting of the Legislature — Resigning his seat as 
Delegate to Congress, ... - - 279 

May 25. — Gen. Phil. Dickinson to Josiah Hornblower, Speaker 
of the Assembly — In relation to the condition of the 
Military Companies in the State, - . - . 280 

July 25. — Robert Morris, at Philadelphia, to the Governor — 

Relating to the accounts of the State, - - . 282 

August 22. — The same to the same — Referring to the Supplies 

demanded by Congress, - . . . . 287 

October 23. — Abraham Clark, Delegate to Congress at Philadel- 
phia, to the Speaker of Assembly — Referring to a division 
of the Islands, dtc, in the Delaware Bay and River between 
Pennsylvania, Delaware and New Jersey. - - 288 

October 31. — The President of Congress to the Governor — 

Transmitting a Proclamation, d:c., for general Thanksgiving, 291 

November 21. — The Governor, at Trenton, to the Speaker of the 

Assembly — Relating to his Salary, - - - 294 

December 12. — The President of Congress to the Governor — 
Referring to Acts of Congress calling upon the States to 
complete their quota of troops, and recommending a census 
of the inhabitants, - - - . . 296 

December 17. — Address of Congress to the States — Calling for 

renewed exertions, . . - . . 297 

December 17. — Abraham Clark, Delegate in Congress at Phila- 
delphia, to John Mehelm, Speaker of the Assembly — 
Respecting the settlement of the claim of Islands, &c., in 
the Delaware, ----.. 300 

1782. 

January 22 — General Washington, at Philadelphia, to the Gov- 

ernor---In relation to the finances of the country, - 303 

January 31. — The same to the same — Transmitting a return of 

the men from New Jersey in service, &;c., - - 306 

March 5. — The same to the same — In reference to the wants of 

the next campaign, - - - - - 310 

May 4. — The same to the same — Urging preparations for the 

ensuing campaign, - . - - - 312 

May 8.— The same to the same—Commenting upon debates in 

Parliament on American affairs, - - - - 317 

July 29.— Robert Morris to the Governor— Relating to the 

Finances, ...... gig 

July 30... .The same to the same— On the mode of collecting taxes, 320 

September 16.--Abraham Clark, Delegate in Congress at Phila. 
delphia, to Joseph Cooper--Relating to Islands in the 
Delaware, ...... 322 



XVI CONTENTS. 

1782. PAGE 

September 26. — The same to John Mehelm, Speaker of the As- 
sembly — Respecting the quotas of old bills of credit to be 
sunk by several States — The public debt, &c., - - 324 

December 14. — Benjamin Franklin, at Passy, France, to Robert 

Morris — Relating to the interests of America abroad, - 327 

1783. 

March 18. — Robert R. Livingston, at Philadelphia, to the Gov- 
ernor — Transmitting copy of Provisional Treaty of Peace, &c. 330 

June 5. — Robert Morris to the Governor, . . . 332 

June 7. — General Washington to the President of Congress — 
Transmitting an address of the Officers of the Army to him, 
with his answer, .-•-.. 333 

July 11. — Rober Morris to the Governor — On the state of the 

Finances, .--.--- 340 

July 28. — The same to the same, .... 343 

October 29. — Elias Boudinot, at Princeton, to the Chairman of 
the Joint Meeting — Requesting to be allowed to retire from 
public service, ...... 345 

November 8. — Governor Livingston to the Legislature — Ack- 
nowledging his election as Governor, - - - 348 

December 23. — Thomas Mifflin, President of Congress, at An- 
napolis, to the Governor — Requesting the attendance of 
Delegates from New Jersey, .... 349 

December 24. — The same to the same, - - - 349 

1784. 

October 24. — Governor Livingston to the Legislature — In ack- 
nowledgment of liis re-election, .... 351 

1785. 

August 24. — The Secretary of Congress to the Governor — In 
relation to the finances, and the necessity for an enumeration 
of the inhabitants, &c., ..... 352 

October 22. — Benjamin Thompson, Commissioner for settling the 
accounts of New Jersey, at Newark, to the Governor — 
Relating to the claims of New Jersey, - - - 356 

November 1 3. — Baron Steuben to the Governor— Relating to the 

purchase of a tract of land near Hackensack, - - 359 

November 18.-_The Secretary of Congress to the Governor — 

Asking for the attendance of the Delegates from New Jersey, 359 

1786. 

February 23._-Patrick Henry, Speaker of the Assembly of Vir- 
ginia, to the Governor_-Informing him of the appointment 
of a Committee to meet with others from the different States 
for the purpose of framing regulations for trade, &c. - 360 

March 1. — The Secretary of Congress to the Governor Refer- 

ring to the absence of Members of Congress, - -361 



! 



CORRESPONDENCE. 



From John Smyth, Treasurer^d^. to Samuel Tucker, Esq. 
President of the Provincial Congress of New Jersey. 

Perth Amboy, February 21st, 1776. 
SiR^__In answer to yours of yesterday's date, which 
came to my hands last evenmg, I beg you will inform the 
Congress that I still look upon myself as Treasurer 
under my former obligation ; and am very willing to 
execute the office in the best manner I can, under the 
condition I heretofore mentioned to them, and which 
they thought reasonable, to wit : that my securities 
and myself be indemnified from all damages whatever 
that may happen by the provincial chest being taken 
out of my hands; for they must be sensible of greater 
risk in the execution of that office when the chest is at 
a distance, than if it were in my own house. My 
own misconduct, carelessness or negUgence I expect to . 

answer for. 

On the 8th instant I wrote you a letter, which I 

1 



2 CORRESPONDENCE OF THE NEW JERSEY [1776. 

sent by a special messenger, who, on his return, told 
me he delivered it into your own hands ; I should 
otherwise have thought myself extremely blame- 
able for not letting the Congress hear from me in 
so long a time ; but as no notice is taken of that letter 
in yours, conclude it to be mislaid. I am obhged to 
the Congress for a copy of their Resolve, relative to 
my receiving Continental money into the Treasury. I 
should not have wished for their sanction in any other 
instance than of money to be sunk, but am sorry it 
should appear in their minutes that I ever refused it. 
I did at first tell Col. Ford I beheved I would not do 
it, but on a second conference he agreed to take it 
back with the view of changing it for Jersey money, 
which he said he believed he could do, and if he could 
not I told him that I would receive it. 

My leg now begins to mend, and hope soon to be 
able to attend to the chest at Mr. Schenck's, as occa- 
sion may require. 

I am your most humble servant, 

JOHN SMYTH. 



From John Smyth to Samuel Tucker, Esq. 
President of the Provincial Congress. 

Perth Amboy, February 22d, 1776. 
giR, — It is impossible I can give an expUcit answer to 
your letter of yesterday until I have consulted my securi- 
ties, which I would have done before now, had I not un- 
derstood from Congress that my securities and myself 



1776.] EXECUTIVE FROM 1776 TO 1786. 3 

were to be indemnified from the additional risk occa- 
sioned be the removal of the provincial chest, and am 
almost certain it is what the Congress consented to ; 
but the place where the chest was to be fixed was the 
only uncertainty in which case I thought it unnecessary 
to consult my securities ; — but since it must be done, 
I have dispatched a messenger to Mr. Stevens, the only 
one of them who lives at a distance, and when I get 
his answer the Congress shall immediately hear from 
me again. 

I am your humble servant, 

JOHN SMYTH. 



From John Smyth to Samuel Tucker, Esq., 
President of the Provincial Congress. 

Perth Amboy, February 26th, 1776. 

Sir, — Mr. Stevens, according to my request, has been 
so good as to come down to this place, to whom I com- 
municated the letters sent me by the Congress relation 
to the removal of the Treasury, as I did to my other 
securities some time before. I find that they are willing 
to continue security for me, considering the difficulty 
of the times, provided the chest is removed to a place 
where the office may be executed in the usual manner. 
I would therefore propose that as I am not now able, 
and have little prospect of being so in less than six 
weeks, to attend the chest if it be removed to Mr. 
Stevens', who will receive the taxes that are still to 
be paid in, and the county collectors may be desired 



4 CORRESPONDENCE OF THE NEW JERSEY [1776. 

to attend at his house for that purpose ; in which case 
no one will or can have access to the chest but those 
who have already entered into engagements, and are 
by law accountable to the public for the due perform- 
ance of my office, which cannot in justice or reason 
be expected of me or them, without the chest is suffered 
to remain in my or their possession. 

As this proposal fully comprehends the declared in- 
tention of the Congress in removing the chest, I cannot 
doubt its proving fully agreeable and satisfactory to 
them. Whenever I am able to attend to the duty of 
the office abroad, the chest may then be removed to 
any other place that shall be agreed upon by all con- 
cerned, — there to remain until we see happier times. 

Mr. Stevens goes home by way of Brunswick, to 
whom I beg you will please to give your answer, who 
will forward it to me. 

I am your most humble servant, 

JOHN SMYTH. 



Resolves of the Committee of Safety. 

Trenton, March 26th, 1776. 

The committee considering the critical situation of 
the city and province of New York, represented in the 
letters from brigadier generals Thompson and Lord 
Sterlino-, and the recommendation of the Continental 
Congress to this committee on that subject: 

Do order and resolve that three battahons of militia 
be draughted out of the militia of this province, in 



1776.] EXECUTIVE FROM 1776 TO 1786. 5 

manner following, viz : From Hunterdon county four 
hundred and forty men, and from Burlington county 
two hundred and twenty men, who are to join and 
form one battalion. From Somerset two hundred and 
twenty men, from Sussex two hundred and twenty men, 
and from Morris two hundred and twenty men, who 
are also to join and form another battalion. From 
Middlesex one hundred men, from Monmouth one 
hundred and forty men, from Essex two hundred and 
twenty men, from Bergen two hundred men, who are 
likewise to join and form another battaUon. 

The whole to march to the city of New York with 
the greatest expedition, under the command of the 
brigadier generals Dickinson and Livingston^ and such 
field officers, captains, and subalterns as are necessary 
to command the said battalions. 

Resolved, that in order to facihtate this service, 
twelve waggons be furnished to the generals to carry 
the baggage of the several battalions. 

Whereas from the scarcity of arms, the draughts may 
not all be properly supplied with the same ; 

Resolved, that it be recommended to the several 
companies of militia, to lend their arms to such as may 
want them, and if a sufficient number cannot be ob- 
tained in a voluntary manner, the several captains are 
hereby impowered to impress them, so as to completely 
equip such as are going upon the present important ser- 
vice, the arms so lent or impressed to be appraised by 
indifferent persons, if lost or damaged in action, or 
real service, the value to be paid to the owner by the 



6 CORRESPONDENCE OF THE NEW JERSEY [1776. 

province, if lost or injured by negligence the occupier 
to make good the damages. 

Resolved, that the generals may draw on the trea- 
sury of the provincial Congress of New Jersey, for the 
sum of one thousand pounds, if so much be necessary 
for the subsistence of the troops on their march to the 
city of New York. 

By order of the committee, 

SAMUEL TUCKER, President. 



From the President of the Continental Congress to the 
Convention of New Jersey. 

Philadelphia, June 18, 1776. 

Gentlemen, — It is impossible fully to ascertain the 
strength of our enemies, or the force destined for New 
York. It is incumbent on us to be prepared to defend 
ourselves against any number of troops that may be 
ordered against that place. This, it is apparent, can 
never be effectually done but by adopting the enclosed 
resolve, wherein it is recommended by Congress to your 
colony, to empower the General at New York, to call 
such part of the militia to his assistance, as may be ne- 
cessary to repel our enemies. 

The great advantages the American cause will re- 
ceive from the Civil power thus lending its aid to the 
military, and acting in conjunction with it, are too man- 
ifest to be mentioned. The whole strength of a Colo- 
ny, may, by these means, be drawn to a point, the in- 
stant the situation of affairs shall render it necessary. 



1776.] EXECUTIVE FROM 1776 TO 1786. 7 

The colony of Massachusetts Bay, while the British 
troops lay in Boston, passed a Resolve, at the request 
of Congress, similar to that which they now recommend 
to you. 

The colony of New Jersey, will, I am persuaded 
imitate their example on the present occasion ; and 
convince her sister Colonies, that in virtue and love of 
country, she is determined to be exceeded by none. 

I have the honor to be. Gentlemen, 
Your most ob't and very humble serv't, 

JOHN HANCOCK, President. 



From the General commanding at New York, to the 
President of the Provincial Congress of New Jersey. 

New York, August 8, 1776. 
Sir — I have received repeated information, that a 
number of persons known to be inimical to the cause of 
the American States, or of suspicious characters, have 
lately removed from this and other places into the county 
of Monmouth in New Jersey, with intent, no doubt from 
its situation, of communicating with and aiding our 
enemies. All those of similar characters on Long Island 
and the other counties adjacent to this place, will be 
secured to-morrow morning, and I must urge the 
necessity on your Congress of adopting the same mea- 
sures in all those parts of your Province which are 
most contiguous to the enemy. There are some also 
of very dangerous characters, who I am informed are 
lurking in the neighborhood of Hackensack, and what 



8 CORRESPONDENCE OF THE NEW JERSEY [1776. 

they call the English Neighborhood, particularly Ben- 
jamin Hugget and Frederick Rhinelander. 

This measure has now become the more necessary, 
as from the intelligence I have this day received, there 
is the greatest reason to believe that the enemy intend 
to begin their operations in a very few days, and that 
with a very powerful force. For not only a consider- 
able part of the foreign troops, the British Guards, 
and an additional number of Scottish troops are lately 
arrived at Staten Island, but the army from the South- 
ward under General Clinton also joined them last 
Thursday. I must also urge upon your Congress the 
absolute necessity of adopting some immediate and 
effective measures for completing the troops voted, and 
for affording every other reinforcement to this place that 
is in their power, by detaching a considerable body of 
the militia, or in such other manner as will be most 
effectual. 

Of the 3300 voted by your State, we have but 1458, 
and in the same proportion from the other Colonies, so 
that you will easily conceive what an alarming situation 
we are in. As the harvest is now over, and the militia 
engaged most cheerfully to return if necessary, I per- 
suade myself they will readily turn out upon a repre- 
sentation being made to them of that necessity. 

What from a deficiency of the old regiments, sick- 
ness and the failure of new levies, we are in danger 
of being outnumbered by the enemy at least doubly, 
if not more. The consequences may be fatal unless 
prevented by the spirit of the country. I have de- 



1776.] EXECUTIVE FROM 1776 TO 1786. 9 

spatched expresses to Connecticut to call in their 
militia immediately with their arms, blankets, and what 
ammunition they have, as the supply here to fit their 
guns is attended with much difficulty and delay. I 
must beg your attention to the same circumstances as 
far as the situation of things will admit, but so as not 
to hinder from marching those who cannot come so 
provided. 



From Brigadier- General Williamsori to the Governor 
of New Jersey. 

Elizabeth Town, September 15, 1776. 

Sir, — I had the honor of receiving by the hands of 
Peter Sobriesky, Esq., a commission appointing me to 
the rank of Brigadier General of the Militia Forces of 
the State of New Jersey. 

I am laid under the most sensible obligations to the 
Legislative Council and Assembly for this distinguishing 
mark of their favorable opinion of my abilities, and 
readiness to serve my country, at a time big with events 
of the most solemn nature that can possibly affect a free 
people. I can with gratitude promise that, as far as 
my small abilities enable me, I will execute the trust 
committed to my care with the utmost fidelity — so help 
me God. 

I must beg leave to trouble your Excellency with 
some difficulties which have arisen in the militia, and 
which without a speedy removal will make me despair 
of supporting this post (immediately under my care) 
with that strength which its vicinity to the enemy and its 
importance requires. Their principal complaint is that 



10 CORRESPONDENCE OF THE NEW JERSEY [1776. 

they have been often called out and received no pay. 
This real grievance of theirs your Excellency is well 
acquainted with, and without a speedy remedy, the 
important posts at the ferries of this Town will in a 
great measure be abandoned by our militia. I have but 
little hope that the militia who were upon duty the 
month past will be relieved by half their numbers. I 
believe, sir, that this complaint would be in a great 
measure removed by the appointment of some person 
that could be confided in, to the office of a Muster and 
Pay Master, to attend the different posts, to see that no 
false returns were made of the men, and who being 
intrusted with sufficient sums of the public money, 
might pay them with the greatest punctuahty at the 
expiration of every month's service, which would remove 
one capital cause of the present difficulties. 

Your Excellency well knows the imperfections occa- 
sioned by the frequent relieves of the militia ; for my 
part, I think if no expedient is fallen upon to prevent 
it, they will dwindle away to a mere nothing in three 
or four relieves more, if thp practice of monthly rota- 
tion is continued. Should the militia serve six months 
in turn, they might be made a respectable body, and 
many great imperfections in discipline removed. I 
find the ammunition magazines in this town are very 
deficient. The committee, I believe, have it under 
consideration, and will make the proper application on 
that head. 

I am, with due regard, your very humble servant, 
MATTHIAS WILLIAMSON. 
His Excellency, William Livingston, Esq. 



1776.] EXECUTIVE FROM 1776 TO 1786. 11 

From Judge DeHait to the Legislature. 

Elizabeth town, September 16th, 1776. 

Gentlemen, — Mr. Zabriskie by your order acquainted 
me that I had been elected Chief Justice of the State of 
New Jersey. This election does me great honor. I 
can only wish my abilities were equal to that high and 
important office, but such as they are they shall be ex- 
erted to discharge with dignity and uprightness the very 
great trust reposed in me. 

I am, gentlemen, your most obliged and most obedient 
servant, JOHN DeHART. 

To the Hon. the Legislative Council and Assembly of 

the State of New Jersey. 

Froin Deputy Quarter Master General Biddle to 
Governor Livingston. 

Perth Amboy, September 19th, 1776. 

Sir, — I received orders about ten days ago to pur- 
chase a quantity of grain for a magazine to be formed 
above Bomdet's ferry for the supply of provender for the 
horses of the army on the New York side. 

I engaged Col. John Zabriskie near Hackensack to 
purchase about 2,000 bushels of oats, corn and rye, 
which he informed me could be got in that neighbor- 
hood, and sent to a more distant part for a larger 
quantity. I was much surprised on receiving a letter 
from my assistant at Fort Constitution, in which he 
tells me Col. Zabriskie has got no grain, as the inhab- 
itants would not sell it without gold and silver. 



12 CORRESPONDENCE OF THE NEW JERSEY [1776. 

I yesterday received orders from his Excellency, 

Gen. Washington, and from Col. , Quarter 

Master General, which makes it requisite to have a 
magazine of hay and grain immediately formed at or 
near Fort Constitution, and this refusal of the conti- 
nental money, or keeping back their grain, which I am 
ready to pay the full value for, puts it out of my power 
to make the provision I am ordered. I thought it my 
duty to acquaint your Excellency, that the Legislature 
of this State may take the same into their consideration 
and pass such ordinance or resolves as may to them 
seem necessary. I shall be glad to be favored with 
your advice on this subject, and am, 

With great respect your Excellency's most obedient 
and very humble servant, 

CLEMENT BIDDLE, 
D. a M. General. 
His Excellency, the Governor of New Jersey. 



From Archibald Kennedy to Governor Livingston. 

Morristown, September 30th, 1776. 

Sir, — By an order of the Provincial Congress of 
New Jersey, I have been confined for ten weeks past. 
I don't know of any charge against me, nor the reasons 
of my being thus forced trom my family. But I have 
been informed several half-pay officers have been per- 
mitted to return to their respective places of abode upon 
giving their parole of honor, a favor which I flatter 
myself will be extended to me, and which I shall fully 



1776.] EXECUTIVE FROM 1776 TO 1786. 13 

comply with, having a numerous family of above fifty 
to provide for every day, and no person to look after 
my property. 

I need not say more on this subject, bnt hope you will 
take the above into serious consideration, and permit 
me to return to my family. 

I am your most humble servant, 

ARCHIBALD KENNEDY. 
His Excellency, William Livingston, Esq., Governor 

of the State of New Jersey. 



From the President of the Continental Congress to 
the Assembly of Neiv Jersey. 

Philadelphia, October 2d, 1776. 

Gentlemen, — The many and just complaints of the 
insufficiency of the surgeons and their mates, to dis- 
charge their duty in a proper manner, have induced 
Congress to pass the enclosed resolves ; recommending 
it to the several States to appoint some skilful physicians 
as examiners ; without whose approbation no surgeon, 
or surgeon's mate shall receive a commission either in 
the army or navy. 

The Congress being at present deeply engaged in 
matters of the utmost importance to the welfare of 
America, have judged it absolutely necessary that there 
should be a full representation of the several States as 
soon as possible. For this end, I am to request, in 
obedience with their commands, you will immediately 
take proper measures to comply with the enclosed 



^ 



14 CORRESPONDENCE OF THE NEW JERSEY [1776. 

resolve, in order that the United States may be fully 
represented in Congress ; and the sentiments of Amer- 
ica be the better known upon those interesting subjects 
that lie before them. I shall therefore only once more 
request your compliance with this requisition of Con- 
gress, and have the honor to be, Gentlemen, 
Your most obedient and very humble servant. 

JOHN HANCOCK, President. 



From the President of the Continental Congress to the 
Assembly of New Jersey. 

Philadelphia, October 9th, 1776. 
Gentlemen, — The enclosed resolves which I trans- 
mit in obedience to the commands of Congress, will 
inform you of the ample provision they have made for 
the support of both officers and soldiers who shall enter 
into the service during the war. The pay of the 
former is considerably increased, and the latter is to 
receive annually a complete suit of clothes or in lieu 
thereof the sum of twenty dollars, should he provide the 
suit for himself This additional encouragement, besides 
the twenty dollars bounty and one hundred acres of land 
formerly granted, the Congress expect will be the means 
of engaging the troops to serve during the war. For 
this purpose also, I am to request you will appoint a 
committee or committees to repair immediately to the 
army to induce such of the troops as have been raised 
by your state to enlist during the war, and to appoint 
officers for the same. 



1776.] EXECUTIVE FROM 1776 TO 1786, 15 

The Congress for very obvious reasons are extremely 
anxious to keep the army together. 

The dangerous consequences of their breaking up, 
and the difficuky of forming a new one, are inconceiva- 
ble ; were this barrier once removed, military power 
would quickly spread desolation and ruin over the face 
of our country. The importance and indeed absolute 
necessity of filling up the army, of providing for the 
troops, and engaging them to serve during the war, is 
so apparent, and has been so frequently urged, that I 
shall only request your attention to the resolves of Con- 
gress on this subject, and beseech you, by that love you 
have for your country, her rights and liberties, to exert 
yourselves to carry them speedily and effectually into 
execution, as the only means of preserving her in this 
her critical and alarming situation. 

I have the honor to be, gentlemen, your most obedient 
and very humble servant, 

JOHN HANCOCK, President. 

Hon'ble Assembly of New Jersey. 



From Colonel Win. Maxwell to the Governor-, Council 
and Asseinhly. 

Point Independence, October 18th, 1776. 
Gentlemen, — Agreeably to your instructions sent by 
the Hon. John Cleve Symmes and Tunis Dey, I have 
furnished them with the necessary returns. Clothing 
I did not think worthy of mentioning as they are 
chiefly worn out. I have likewise given them a list of 



16 CORRESPONDENCE OF THE NEW JERSEY [1776. 

those officers that choose to continue in the service 
during the war. 

I am sorry to inform you, that there is not one man 
willing at present (nor do I think they will, while here) 
to engage to stay at this place during the winter. I have 
laid before them every proposal the continental Con- 
gress has made them ; the great care your hon. house 
is taking to provide them with warm clothing, and 
the glorious cause we are now engaged in, but all to no 
purpose. They generally say that they will engage as 
soon as they go home, and I believe they will. This 
being the first year of their service, and it has been so 
severe a one, and now a contract offered, that they know 
not when it will end, it may be easily conceived rhey 
will require a little time to deliberate. 

I have the pleasure to inform you that I have in 
general as good a set of officers as there is in any bat- 
talion in the continental service, and of course they will 
make good soldiers: what we have still remaining in 
health, I beheve there is none better, 

I beg leave in a particular manner to recommend to 
your notice Colonel Shrieve, he has been very attentive 
to getting a thorough knowledge of his duty, and he is 
the oldest Lieutenant Colonel belonging to our State ; 
and although I must regret his absence from any regi- 
ment I should have the honor to command, yet I cannot 
help doing him the justice to recommend him to you as 
fit for the first preferment in these battalions, or to com- 
mand the fourth to be raised. 

Major Grey has behaved spiritedly on every occasion. 



1776.] EXECUTIVE FROM 1776 TO 1786. 17 

He was at the head of the first division of my battaUon 
v^^hen it went into Canada, and has gone through the 
several fatigues of this long campaign with credit to 
himself and all his acquaintance. I can heartily re- 
commend him as worthy of preferment. 

Captain Shute is on command, but has frequently 
said he would serve during the war — I think you may 
make no doubt of his continuing. My assistant and 
quarter-master I beg leave to appoint myself, (Congress 
gave me this right before), as those I have had did not 
suit the battahon or me. 

When the battalion was first raised, all the officers, 
excepting the field ones, lost above a month's rank, 
which has grated them much, and has saved nothing to 
the pubhc. — The case was thus : the officers got only 
warrants to recruit with, instead of their commissions. 
I hope that you will remedy that evil in some measure 
this time, by dating our commissions from the time of 
our entering our names to continue in the service. I 
am informed the Pennsylvania commissioners, have the 
commissions for their officers with them. 

Captain Scott has been under arrest for some time 
past. The near approach of the enemy will not permit 
us to have a general court martial ; there is too much 
business for the officers : — Colonel Dey has a copy of 
his crime. He is the first officer, and the only one, put 
under arrest, belonging to the battahon — I hope it may 
be the last ; but they may depend upon coming to it 
when found to deserve it. I am, Gentlemen, 
Your most obedient humble servant, 
2 WHJJAM MAXWELL. 



18 CORRESPONDENCE OF THE NEW JERSEY [1776. 

From (he President of the Continental Congress to the 

Governor. 

Philadelphia, November 12th, 1776. 

Sir, — I am directed by Congress to transmit you the 
enclosed resolve, and to request your attention to it. 
Tlie dangerous intercourse between our enemies in 
New York and Staten Island, and the internal enemies 
of America in different parts of New Jersey, calls for 
the immediate interposition of government to suppress 
it. You will therefore be pleased, in conjunction with 
your Council and Assembly, to take such measures, for 
this end as you shall judge most expedient. 

I have the honor to be, with the utmost esteem, sir, 
your most obedient and very humble servant, 

JOHN HANCOCK, President. 
His Excellency, Governor Livingston. 



From Col. George Taylor to John Covenhoven. 

November 19th, 1776. 

Sir, — I have taken this method to inform you and 
the rest of the House that Col. Hendrickson's month 
ends next Thursday evening, and the men will be very 
anxious to return home. I am at a loss how to act in 
this case, as the Generals are out and no orders can be 
given. Another thing I must inform you — that I have 
been informed that an act of your house makes void all 
commissions when the bearer does not qualify: as to 
my part, gentlemen, I don't choose to qualify for several 



1776.] executivf: from 1776 to 1786. 19 

reasons, and if officers have no other principles to bind 
them but oaths, I should be very doubtful whether any 
very extraordinary matters might be expected from 
them. This subject I shall drop, and request your 
information whether you choose my resignation or 
whether I must act as usual. This, gentlemen, is in 
your breasts. I have ordered a company down to 
Sandy Hook; the post I think lies most exposed. I shall 
now remain inactive till I hear further from you, which 
I expect will be by the messenger as I have sent him 
on purpose, and tlie nature of the several stations re- 
quires something should be done as soon as possible. 

I therefore conclude, and submit the subject to the 
wisdom of your house, and remain, gentlemen, 
Your very humble servant, 

GEORGE TAYLOR. 
John Covenhoven, Esq., Member of the Assembly now 

setting at Princeton, New Jersey, or, in his absence, 

to any other member. 



From ti. Foniian to Joseph Holmes. 

November 21st, 177G. 

Dear Sir, — There is a task laid upon me that I 
don't hke. 

Col Taylor refuses taking the oath required: in con- 
sequence thereof the officers refuse acting under him. 
They request me to take the command the next month, 
which begins to-morrow. ' Tis quite hkely Col. Taylor 
has orders from the General, and also money for to 



20 CORRESPONDENCE OF THE NEW JERSEY [1776. 

supply the regiment with provisions. Before I can go 
I must have orders and money to supply a commissary. 
You see the immediate necessity for orders being sent, 
or our guards on the shore may be suffering for pro- 
visions, and in the greatest confusion. 

I am, S. FORMAN. 

To Joseph Holmes, Esq., at Burlington. 



From Colonel DeHart to Governor Livingston. 

[December, 1776, original without date.] 
Sir, — I am thus far on the road to Pitts Town, ex- 
pecting to have met the Assembly and Council there, 
but am informed by Mr. Mehelm that you have ad- 
journed to a place near Philadelphia. My business 
with them is, to ascertain what price I may venture to 
give for arms to arm the regiment I belong to. Another 
thing I would most earnestly request. That such war- 
rant appointments as remain, or have happened in our 
regiment, may not be filled up by the state, as Colonel 
Ogden and myself have already begun, and made con- 
siderable progress in the recruiting service. In order to 
do this, we have filled the vacancies already with 
officers, who have recruited a considerable number of 
men, and should this not be attended to, it will finally 
ruin the regiment in the recruiting service. This I 
could by no means have thought to be an intrusion 
upon any prerogative, as your Excellency may remem- 
ber that I apphed to you to do it, or to call upon a com- 
mittee of Council so to do, and your Excellency could 
afford no expedient for that necessity. I apphed to 



1776.] EXECUTIVE FROM 1776 TO 1786. 21 

General Washington, who directed the mode we have 
taken. I shall soon return to Morristown, as my 
presence and assistance are very necessary there for 
recruiting, and notwithstanding the many unmerited 
neglects our regiment has received, I shall exert myself 
to fill it. The above I request you to communicate to 
Council and Assembly, and 

I am your most obedient servant, 

WILLIAM DeHART. 



From the President of the Continental Congress to 
Governor Livingston. 

Baltimore, December 30th, 1776. 

Sir, — Ever attentive to the security of civil liber- 
ty. Congress would not have consented to the vest- 
ing of such powers in the military department as those 
which the inclosed resolves convey to the continen- 
tal Commander-in-Chief, if the situation of publick 
affairs did not require at this crisis a decision and vigour 
which distance and numbers deny to assemblies far re- 
moved from each other and from the immediate seat of 
war. 

The strength and progress of the enemy, joined to 
prospects of considerable reinforcements, have rendered 
it not only necessary that the American forces should 
be augmented beyond what Congress had heretofore 
designed, but that they should be brought into the field 
with all possible expedition. These considerations 
induce Congress to request in the most earnest manner 



22 CORRESPONDENCE OF THE NEW JERSEY [1776. 

that the fullest mfluence of your state may be exerted 
to aid such levies as the General shall direct in conse- 
quence of the powers now given him, and that your 
quota of battalions formerly fixed may be completed 
and ordered to head quarters with all the despatch that 
an ardent desire to secure the publick happiness can 
direct. 

I have the honor to be, with every sentiment of 
esteem, Sir, your most obedient servant, 

JOHN HANCOCK, President. 
To His Excellency, Governor Livingston. 



From Col. Spencer to Stephen Crane of the Asseinhly, 

Elizabethtown, January 28th, 1777. 

Dear Sir, — I was in hopes to have had the pleasure 
of visiting your honorable House of Assembly, but my 
time is so taken up in completing the three months' 
battalion and that of raising a battahon during the 
war, that it is not possible for me to be so long absent, 
— therefore must give up the matter at present. I send 
inclosed a Ust of what commissions may be wanted in 
the battallion I am now in. You'll please present the 
matter and let them be forwarded. 

With best compliments to His Excellency, Governor 
Livingston and the gentlemen of the House, I am your 
most obedient and humble servant, ' 

OLIVER SPENCER. 
The Hon. Stephen Crane, Esq. 



1777.] EXECUTIVE, FROM 177G TO 1786. 23 

List of Commissions wanted — 1 Colonel, 1 Lieut. 
Col., 2 Captains, 4 first Lieuts., 3 second do. 8 Ensigns. 

N. B. As I have not got the names of the whole, 
don't insert any of them, as the commissions can be 
easily filled here. 

OLIVER SPENCER. 



Frojii General Washington to the Legislature of New 

Jersey. 

Head Quarters, Morristown, January 31st, 1777. 

The great countenance and protection shewn and 
given to deserters, by persons in the different neighbor- 
hoods from whence thev originallv came, has made that 
vice so prevalent in the army that unless some very 
effectual measures are fallen upon to prevent it, our 
new army will scarcely be raised before it will again 
dwindle and waste away, from that cause alone. 

I know of no remedy so effectual as for the different 
states, immediately, to pass laws laying a very severe 
penalty upon those who harbour or fail to give informa- 
tion against deserters, knowing them to be such, and 
strictly enjoining all Justices of the Peace and officers 
of the militia to keep a watchful eye over and appre- 
hend all such persons as shall return from the army 
without a discharge. 

In order that this most salutary measure may be 
carried speedily into execution, I have not only desired 
Congress to recommend it to the different States, but 
have myself wrote circular letters to them all, pressing 
their compHance with my request. Desertion must 



24 CORRESPONDENCE OF THE NEW JERSEY [1777. 

cease, of course, when the offenders find they have no 
shelter. 

I have the honor to be, gentlemen, your most obedi- 
ent servant, G^ WASHINGTON. 
To the Hon. the Representatives of the State of New 

Jersey. 



From Colonel Chambers to the Speaker of the 
Assembly. 

Raritan, February 5th, 1777. 
Sir, — I have consulted my officers, and in conse- 
quence of which, I do request you will recommend to 
his Excellency, Governor Livingston, the following 
persons to be Field Officers in my Battalion, viz. : 
Major Cornelius Stout, for Lieutenant-Colonel. 
David Bishop, Adjutant, for First Major. 
Captain David Jones, for Second Major. 
John Schanck, for Adjutant. 
You will please to urge the necessity for those Offi- 
cers, and beg they may be immediately commissioned. 
Colonel Lowrey being appointed Commissary for 
this state, declines acting as Lieutenant- Colonel. 
I am, sir, your very obedient and humble servant, 
DAVID CHAMBERS, Colonel. 
To John Hart, Esq., Speaker of Assembly. 

From Jonatlian D. Sergeant to the Speaker of the 
Assembly. 

Baltimore, February 6th, 1777. 

Dear Sir, — Pursuant to the appointment of the 
Legislature of New Jersey, I have attended the Con- 



1777.] EXECUTIVE FROM 1776 TO 1786. 25 

gress, as one of the Delegates, from their first sitting at 
Baltimore to this time. As, during this period pubUc 
aflfairs have taken a much happier turn, and my own 
private circumstances have assumed rather a melan- 
choly complexion, I hope your honorable body vv^ill 
excuse my wishing to retire to the management of my 
private concerns. 

The loss of my house, by fire, is the least part of my 
misfortunes, as my attention to politics during those un- 
happy times has at once superseded my business and 
prevented the collecting my accounts till the greater 
part of my debtors, it is to be feared, are either ruined 
or not to be found. For these reasons I find it neces- 
sary to apply myself to some business for the support of 
my family. My attendance in Congress must be a bar 
in the way of all such attempts, and I must, therefore, 
beg that some other person may be appointed in my 
place. I shall, however, attend till a person can be 
appointed to succeed me. 

I am your most obedient and humble servant, 

JONA. D. SERGEANT. 
Hon'ble J. Hart, Speaker, &c. 



Fro?n Abraham Clark to the Speaker of the Assembly. 

Baltimore, February 8th, 1777. 

Dear Sir, — I lately heard the Assembly of New 
Jersey had met, but cannot learn where, and am there- 
fore unable to give a proper direction. The four New 
England Colonies have had a meeting of committees 



26 CORRESPONDENCE OF THE NEW JERSEY [1777- 

from their Legislatures to consult upon measures for 
their mutual defence, and for regulating trade and com- 
merce. Their proceedings are before Congress, and I 
expect will soon obtain their approbation ; and recom- 
mendation will therefore be sent to New York, New 
Jersey, Pennsylvania and Maryland, to appoint com- 
mittees to meet at Philadelphia for the purpose of 
regulating the prices of all articles of trade, &c. The 
southern states will also be desired to meet for that 
puipose. These matters, if passed, you will soon have 
notice of 

I am much alarmed with General Washington's 
proclamation of the 25th ot January. He has as- 
sumed the legislative and executive powers of govern- 
ment in all the states. I moved Congress to pass a 
resolution I introduced for preventing its fatal conse- 
quences, and the establishing such a precedent. My 
motion was committed, and is now before the com- 
mittee. I hope our Legislatures will take proper 
notice of it, whatever issue it may have in Congress, 
and not tamely submit their authority to the control of 
a power unknown in our constitution. We set out to 
oppose tyranny in all its strides, and I hope we shall 
persevere. 

A regulation for providing carriages for the army, 
and to prevent as much as possible the custom of im- 
pressing, has long been before a Congress committee, 
and has been recommitted, and so it remains. I wish 
you would not delay passing a law for regulating im- 
uresses of this kind. The devastations of New Jersey 



1777.] EXECUTIVE FROM 1776 TO 1786. 27 

by the enemy will, I think, make it necessary to prevent 
cattle running at large, as fences on the main road are 
wantonly destroyed, and cannot soon be made. I think, 
too, that no person ought so be compelled to fence 
against street cattle at any time. 

Mr. Sergeant talks of resigning, and Mr. Stockton, 
by his late procedure, cannot act. I wish their places 
may be supplied by such as will be reputable to New 
Jersey, not only by their integrity but abilities. 

The tories in the two lower counties of Maryland, 
and on the eastern shore of Delaware, are very trouble- 
some, and collecting forces, aided by several men oi 
war in Delaware, but more especially in Chesapeake 
Bay. The militia and two Continental regiments are 
marching against them. 

I expect Congress will soon remove from hence to 
Lancaster, though it is not yet determined. If that 
should happen, I shall be greatly perplexed with the 
chests. Our chief reason for removing is the extrava- 
gant price of living here. The price of board, without 
any liquor, a dollar a day, horse keeping 4s., wine 12s. 
per bottle, rum 30s. per gallon, and every thing else in 
proportion, and likely soon to rise. 

I am, dear sir, with great regard, your obedient and 
humble servant, ABRAHAM CLARK. 

John Hart, Esq., Speaker of Assembly of New Jersey. 



28 CORRESPONDENCE OF THE NEW JERSEY [1777. 

From James Sullivan to Governor Livingston. 

Boston, February 9th, 1777. 

Sir, — As chairman of a committee of the House of 
Representatives of this state, for this purpose especially 
appointed, I enclose you a copy of an act lately passed 
by this government, for regulating the price of the arti- 
cles therein enumerated, and w^hich may from their 
nature and use, and from the present situation of the 
country, come under the denomination of the necessa- 
ries of life. 

The want of a sufficient medium in silver and gold 
to support the present war, necessarily procured the 
emission of bills of pubhc credit, and in proportion to 
these emissions the public debt must be increased. It 
therefore became a measure of the last importance to 
lessen the very extravagant price to which these 
articles had arisen, and without it the wages of the 
soldiers would have been insufficient to support his per- 
son and family. Had not the very weighty and impor- 
tant business which so constantly demands the attention 
of the honorable Congress prevented it, their making 
these regulations would have given the measure, even 
here, a more extensive and salutary influence than can 
be expected from what the northern states have done. 
That the prices of those necessaries might throughout 
those states be as uniform as the situation and custom 
of each state can admit of, and the particular situation 
of Congress and the army being such as prevented our 
making application to that honorable Assembly upon 



1777.] EXECUTIVE FROM 1776 TO 1786. 29 

this subiect, a committee from their several Assembhes 
met at Providence, and drew the outHnes which were 
generally adopted by these Assembhes ; and it is the 
ardent desire of Massachusetts that some such regula- 
tion may be speedily embraced by all the American 
states. 

I am also directed to enclose you a copy of a reso- 
tion recently passed by the General Assembly here, for 
preventing the exportation of the several articles therein 
mentioned; and am authorised to assure you that this 
measure did not in the least proceed from any abate- 
ment in that sincere affection which we have for our 
sister states, but from an earnest desire to feed and 
clothe that army upon whom the salvation of America 
so materially depends. 

Had we not taken this step, the few evil-minded 
and designing persons yet in America, who leave no 
measure untried to ruin us, together with those who, 
regardless of their country's weal, are seeking their own 
emolument only, would have monopolized near all the 
goods which we have, and which we design for the use 
of the army. 

This embargo was rendered in some measure neces- 
sary by the Regulation Act, or rather by our sister states 
not coming into similar measures, for all our goods 
would soon have been either concealed from the use of 
the arm} , or have been carried to those places where 
an exorbitant price o»uld be obtained for them. But 
we hope soon to see the army so well clothed, and 
such regulations ui ir9de take place in all the United 



30 CORRESPONDENCE OF THE NEW JERSEY [1777. 

States, as will enable us to repeal this resolution : which 
we shall do in such case with the greatest cheerfulness. 
I am, sir, with the greatest respect, your most obe- 
dient and humble servant, 

JAS. SULLIVAN. 
Hon. William Livingston, Esq., Governor. 



From General Dickinson to Governor Livingston. 

Head-Quailers on Raritan, Feb. 12, 1777. 

Sir, — I wrote your Excellency some tune ago, and 
then reminded you of our conversation at Morristown. 
Although my private alfairs demanded my immediate 
attention, yet much was due to the public ; and I could 
not think of absenting myself from the station, in 
which the late honorable convention of this state had 
placed me, w ithout giving timely notice, especially as it 
was a time of great danger. The situation of my 
family and affairs require my utmost care and attention. 
Mrs. Dickinson has been long confined to the house, 
and by a letter just received is now confined to her 
room ; my family and effects dispersed through three 
states, my loss has already been very considerable, and 
without my attention will be greatly increased. I 
joined his excellency Gen. Washington the 25th Nov. 
last, since which time have not spent a single hour in 
looking after my property in this state, which now 
suffers exceedingly. The situation o1 my farm is in 
so public a part of this state, — I have so sensibly felt 
inconvenience attending the same, that Mrs. Dickinson 
chooses to remove to some more distant and secure part 



1777.] EXECUTIVE FROM 1776 TO 1786. 31 

of the country in a neigliboring state, which 1 am de- 
termined to comply with, as soon as I am released 
with honour. I have a place to purchase, and then to 
remove my family and effects, which will take up a 
considerable time, and the season is advancing fast. I 
therefore request your excellency will be pleased, with- 
out fail, after the timely notice I have given you, to 
release me by the appointment of another general by 
the first of March next, as my situation is such, that I 
cannot remain longer without the greatest injury to my 
family. The gentleman whom you honor with the 
appointment, will be pleased to call upon me at my 
quarters the beginning of March. If my conduct has 
met with the approbation of your excellency, and the 
General Assembly of the State,* it will be to me a 
sotirce of great pleasure. 

Your excellency's most obedient and humble servant, 
PHILEMON DICKINSON. 

His excellency, Gov. Livingston. 



From Col. Shrieve to Governor Liri?ig.ston. 

Princeton, March 17, 1777. 

Sir, — I have been repeatedly apphed to by the state 
officers of iny regiment for their commissions, and have 
been informed, that they are to be given by the Hon. 
John Hancock, on your excellency's certificate that 
they have been duly appointed. My quarter-master is 
going to Philadelphia on business. If your excellency 
will please to give him such certificate, he will call for 



32 CORRESPONDENCE OF THE NEW JERSEY [1777. 

the commissions. Charles Uxford was first appointed 
quarter-master, but I have not seen or heard from him 
since his appointment ; I supposed he dechned serving. 
After my arrival at this place, the necessity of such a 
useful officer obliged me to apply to the General to ap- 
point one in orders, when Benjamin Osman, a very 
proper person, was appointed. The officers of the 
regiment, together with myself, pray he may be con- 
tinued by the honorable Council, now sitting at Bor- 
dentown. 

I am your excellency's most obedient and humble 
servant, 

ISRAEL SHRIEVE. 
To his excellency, Governor Livingston. 
The staff officers of my regiment are 

Luther Halsey, Adjutant. 

Benjamin Osman, quarter-master. 

William Shute, Paymaster. 

Lewis Howell, Surgeon. 



From Governor Livingston to the Vice President of 

the Council of Safety of Pennsylvania. 

Haddonfield,' March 18th, 1777. 
Sir, — Captain Walton will wait on the Committee of 
Safety with one Borden and his son, boatmen, and 
four other prisoners, Scotchmen, lately bound from Phila- 
delphia to New York, and taken on that account at 
Squam Beach. The boatman denies his being privy to 



1777.] EXECUTIVE FROM 1776 TO 1786. 33 

the designs of the passengers of going to New York, 
He has however contradicted himself in his relation to 
Col. Randolph, to whom he declared that he left Phila- 
delphia without passengers, and has while here, express- 
ed himself to the guard in a very violent manner against 
the Congress. The passengers confess their design of 
going to New York, if they could have prevailed upon 
the boatmen to carry them, and there to have embarked 
for Scotland ; justifying themselves in the measure under 
General Washington's Proclamation, though it has no 
reference to people in their situation, and if it had, they 
were under no necessity of going in so clandestine a 
manner. They being inhabitants of your state, I send 
them to you for further examination by advice of our 
Council of Safety, The said boatman has been employ- 
ed in rigging your galleys, and has been for 25 years 
acquainted with your river, and had been employed in 
New York in sinking the " Chevaux de Prised 
Sir, I am your humble servant, 

WILL. LIVINGSTON, 
Hon'! David Rittenhouse, Vice President, &c. 



From Colonel Bull to Governor Livingston. 

Waterfield, March 27th, 1777. 
Sir, — Yours to David Rittenhouse, Esq., was receiv- 
ed wherein you recommend Col. Willman, and desire to 
know the terms : — which to laborers is 4s. 6d. per day 
with diet — every man to bring his own blanket. Sol- 
diers or militia in continental service receive one shilling 

3 



34 CORRESPONDENCE OF THE NEW JERSEY [1777. 

per dav with an allowance of rum over and above their 
mouthlv pav. I have now at Billingsport about 20u 
workmen, chiefly soldiers. I remain your excellency's 
Obedient and humble servant. 

JNO. BULL, Colonel. 
His Excellencv. Gov'r Livingston. 



From James Wilson to Governor Livingston. 

Philadelphia, March 28, 1777. 

Sir. — There is sreat reason to believe that a certain 
John Curhs of Shrewsbury in New Jersey was con- 
cerned in taking at Bristol the packet from General 
Washington to Congress. I was one of the Com- 
mittee appointed to enquire into that matter : and in 
that character think it my duty to write to you upon 
the subject, that Mr. Curhs may be apprehended and 
examined. 

I have the honor to be. with much esteem, sir, your 
verv humble servant, 

JAMES WILSON. 
His Excellencv. Wfn. Livingston. 



Minutes of the Commissioners appointed to regulate 

Prices. 

York Town, Wednesday Morning, March 1Q\h, 1777. 

The commissioners appointed by the states of New- 
York. New Jersev. Pennsylvania. Delaware, Maryland 
and Virginia for the purpose of considering of and 
forniins a system of regulation adapted to those states 



177 7. J EXECuxm: from 1776 to 17S6. 3-5 

to regulate the price of labor, of manufactiir-i -' ^ :' 
internal produce within these states and of ^ 
ported from foreign parts, except mihtarr storrs. 
laid before the respective Legislatures of each state for 
their approbation, met at the house of 3Ir. W: 
White. Present 

John Sloss HobarL CoL Rober Van Rennseker, of 

New York- 
Theophiltis Ehner. Jose;., ji _ •??. of New Jersev. 
George Henry. Bartram Gc 

Richard Thomas. I'avia McC _ v. of 

Pennsylvania. 
General Caesar Rodney, Lt. Col. Thomas Collins, 

CoL James Lattemore, of Delaware. 
Norman Bruce. John Braceo. Henry GriflitlL Joseph 

Sim. of Maryland- 
Lewis BurwelL Thomas Adams, of Virginia. 

Thomas Axxos. Clerk. 

The several commissioner? -^^ - - -^ n^.iz- 

tials, which were read, appr _. „_. ;_.l. T_f 
resolve of Congress recommending lo "he sfv-ir?.' 
Legislatures, or ;r recess, to the Ex ^ 

of the states of New York. A:c.. :: ?5ion- 

ers to meet at York Town : 

Monday of March :7"^ .^iiier :: 

system of regulation .....^ ... :_ Zx^ose stai- -. - -^- 
before the respective Legdslc.rares of each state for their 
approbation, wastead and 

Adjourned to 3 o'clocL 



36 CORRESPOiNDENCE OF THE NEW JERSEY [1777.. 

The commissioners met Wednesday afternoon at 
3 o'clock, pursuant to adjournment. 

Present, Lewis Burwell, Chairman, &c. 

Ordered that Mr. Hobart, Mr. Henry and Mr. Adams 
be a committee to devise ways and means to prevent the 
mischiefs arising from the spirit of monopoly so preva- 
lent in these states. 

Adjourned till to-morrow morning, 10 o'clock. 

Thursday morning 10 o'clock, March 27, 1777. 
The commissioners met pursuant to adjournment. 
Present, Lewis Burwell, Esq., Chairman, &c. 
Adjourned till 4 o'clock in the afternoon. 

Thursday afternoon 4 o'clock, March 27, 1777. 

The commissioners met pursuant to adjournment. 

Present, Lewis Burwell, Esq., Chairman, &c. 

The committee to whom it was referred to devise 
ways and means, made their report, which, being read, 
was ordered to lie on the table for consideration till to- 
morrow morning, and is in the words following : 

Your committee to whom it was referred to devise 
w^ays and means to prevent the evils arising from the 
spirit of monopoly so prevalent at present, have taken 
the same into consideration and beg leave to report the 
following resolves — 

Whereas many evil minded and disaffected persons 
have engrossed and monopolized large quantities of the 
necessaries of life in order to enhance the price, distress 
the army, and discourage the good people of these 
states in the present glorious struggle for their liberty, 

Resolved. That it be recommended to the several 



1777.] EXECUTIVE FROM 1776 TO 1786. 37 

Legislatures of New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, 
Delaware, Maryland and Virginia to pass laws for the 
purpose of fixing the prices and enforcing the sale of 
such necessary articles as have been or may be from 
time to time engrossed, and which shall be necessary 
for the use of the army or the consumption of the in- 
habitants. 

Resolved, That the prices of the following articles 
that shall have been or may be engrossed or monopo- 
lized as aforesaid, do not exceed, in any or either of the 
said states, the rates hereinafter mentioned. 

Resolved, That it be further recommended to the 
several Legislatures aforesaid from time to time to fix 
the prices and enforce the sale of such other necessary 
articles imported from foreign parts as may be monopo- 
lized in manner aforesaid. 

Resolved, That no person ought to be considered as 
an engrosser or monopolizer who shall keep an open 
shop for the purpose of selling goods by retail, and who 
shall make no distinction in the price between gold and 
silver and continental bills, or the bills of credit of the 
respective state where the sale shall happen. 

Adjourned till 10 o'clock to-morrow morning. 

Friday morning 10 o'clock, March 28, 1777. 
The connnissioners met pursuant to adjournment. 
Present, Lewis Burwell, Esq., Chairman, &c. 
The report was read and debated. 
Adjourned till 3 o'clock, March 28, 1777. 

Friday afternoon 3 o'clock, March 28, 1777. 
The commissioners met pursuajit to adjournment. 



38 CORRESPONDENCE OF J HE NEW JERSEY [1777. 

Present, Lewis Burwell, Esq., Chairman. &c. 

After some time spent in the consideration of the 
report, ordered that the further consideration thereof be 
deferred till to-morrow morning. 

Adjourned till 10 o'clock to-morrow morning. 

Saturday morning 10 o'clock, March 29, 1777. 

The commissioners met pursuant to adjournment. 

Present, Lewis Burwell, Esq., Chairman, &c. 

Ordered that the report be recommitted, and that Mr. 
Braceo, Mr. Collins and Mr. Elmer be added to the 
committee, and that they be instructed to prepare a 
system of measures for remedying the evils occasioned 
by the present fluctuating and exorbitant prices of labor, 
of manufactures, of internal produce, and of goods im- 
ported from foreign parts, except military stores. 

Adjourned till 10 o'clock Monday morning. 

Monday morning, 10 o'clock, March 31, 1777. 

The commissioners met pursuant to adjournment. 

Present, Lewis Burwell, Esq., Chairman, &c. 

The committee made their report, which, being read, 
was ordered to lay on the table for consideration, and is 
in the words following — 

Your committee to whom was recommitted^the report 
of a plan to prevent the evils arising from a spirit of 
monopoly so prevalent at present, with an instruction 
to prepare a system of measures for remedying the 
evils occasioned by the present fluctuating and exor- 
bitant prices of labor, manufactures, internal produce, 
and goods imported from foreign parts, have taken the 
same into consideration, and are of opinion that the pre- 



1776.] EXECUTIVE FROM 1776 TO 1786. 39 

sent fluctuating and exorbitant prices of these articles 
are owing to the following causes. 

1st. The great quantity of paper currency brought 
into circulation for the purpose of supporting the war ; 
whereby the medium greatly exceeds the quantity of 
transferable property, especially in those states in the 
neighborhood of the army, and is therefore so far forth 
decreased in its value to those who have no further 
use for it than to purchase the necessaries and con- 
veniences of Ufe. 

2d. The non-importation agreement, which subsisted 
while any hope remained that Great Britain would do 
justice to the colonies, and the great risk attending a 
foreign commerce since the declaration of war, have 
prevented the inhabitants of these states from receiving 
the usual supplies of foreign connnodities ; which, to- 
gether with the scarcity of raw materials and imple- 
ments requisite for their manufacturing the necessaries 
and conveniencies of life within themselves, have re- 
duced the quantity on hand greatly below the demand 
for the actual consumption of the country. 

Add to these, that a number of disaffected and inim- 
ical persons in the different states, who eagerly seize 
every opportunity of perplexing and distressing the 
good people in their present glorious struggle for every 
thing that ought to be dear to freemen, have refused to 
receive the continental and other currencies in pay- 
ments ; and where that could not be avoided, have by 
investing their monies in silver, gold, and other commo- 
dities, which have an intrinsic value, and by giving 
high and exorbitant prices for the same, led the way 



40 CORRESPONDENCE OF THE NEW JERSEY [1777. 

for many inconsiderate persons to follow so pernicious 
an example ; whereby the spirit of monopoly and extor- 
tion has increased, great quantities of the necessaries 
and conveniences of life have been purchased and laid 
up, by some, under an expectation that should the event 
of the war prove unfavorable to the United States, pro- 
perty would be more secure in those articles than in 
paper currency; by others, with a view to the rapid 
increase of their fortunes by extorting an exorbitant 
advance upon the prime cost of their goods ; which has 
induced the manufacturer to withhold his commodities, 
and the laborer his service, unless they could obtain a 
price equally extravagant. For the remedy of which, 
and to prevent the like evils in future, your committee 
are of opinion that a general and permanent system of 
giving stability to, and preventing extortion in the 
prices of labor, of manufactures, and of internal pro- 
duce within the United States, and goods imported 
from foreign parts ought to be adopted, and for this desi- 
rable purpose, beg leave to report the following resolves. 

Resolved, First, that it be reconnnended to the seve- 
ral legislatures of New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, 
Delaware, Maryland, and Virginia, by taxes and other- 
wise, according to the abilities of their respective states, 
to collect as much as possible of the paper currency 
already emitted, and not to issue the same again, but in 
cases of the most urgent necessity. [Disagreed to.] 

Resolved, Secondly, that it be recommended to the 
several legislatures aforesaid, to fix the prices and en- 
force the sale of such commodities as now are or here- 
after shall be in the hands of such persons who engross, 



1777.] EXECUTIVE FROM 1776 TO 1786. 41 

monopolize or withhold them from market ; the same 
being necessary for the use ot the army or navy, or 
the consumption of the inhabitants, and that the follow- 
ing articles, which may be so engrossed, monopolized, 
or withheld from market, be sold at a rate not exceeding 
the prices hereinafter mentioned. 

Viz. And that the prices of all other articles that are 
or may be engrossed, monopolized, or withheld from the 
market, as aforesaid, be fixed by the respective legisla- 
tures in such manner as that they shall bear the same 
proportion to those already enumerated, which they 
usually did before the commencement of the present war. 
And whereas, the price of labor and of manufactures 
ought to be proportionate to each other. Resolved, That 
it be recommended to the legislatures aforesaid to pass 
laws for the purpose of fixing and settling the rates and 
prices hereinatter enumerated ; viz : And further, that 
the manufactures not herein enumerated, be rated by 
the respective legislatures, in such manner, as that the 
prices may bear the same proportioa to the price of 
labor, as now fixed, that they did before the counnence- 
ment of the present w ar. 

And whereas, the practice of exposing good§ and 
merchandize to sale, bv wav of pubhc vendue has 
tended to increase the present fluctuating and exorbi- 
tant prices of the necessaries and conveniences of Life 
and encourage the spirit of monopoly : Resolved. That 
it be recommended to the respective legislatures afore- 
said, to pass laws for restraining such practice in future, 
except in the case of commodities, which shall have 
been condemned in a Court of Admiraltv, or taken bv 



42 CORRESPONDENCE OF THE NEW JERSEY [1776. 

process issuing out of the other courts of law ; in which 
cases to regulate the sale by providing that no goods, 
wares or merchandize be sold in large lots ; and that 
no lot be removed from the warehouse, in which it 
shall be stored, under the care and direction of the 
proper officer, until the purchase money for the same be 
first paid down. 

And whereas, the most speedy and effectual measures 
ought to be pursued for procuring a sufficient supply of 
those commodities, which are more immediately neces- 
sary for the use of the army and navy, and the con- 
sumption of the inhabitants. 

Resolved, That it be recommended to the respective 
legislatures aforesaid, to encourage the commerce to 
foreign parts, by establishing public assurance offices on 
the account of the respective states ; to encourage by 
premiums and otherwise, for a limited time, the import- 
ation of medicines, coarse woolen and Unen cloths, 
coarse hosiery, felt hats, raw hides, tanned leather, men's 
common shoes, salt and wool, cotton and tow cords ; to 
discourage by every prudent means the importation 
and use of fine woolen and linen cloths, and all kinds 
of superfluities. 

To prohibit the exportation of skins and furs of all 
kinds, except to some one or other of the United States; 
to encourage by premiums and otherwise the increasing 
the number and improving the breed of sheep; the 
raising of flax, hemp, and cotton, the manufacturing of 
woolen and linen cloths, and the erecting of slitting 
and wire mills and salt works. 

Adjourned to 3 o'clock, afternoon. 



1777.] EXECUTIVE FR03I 1776 TO 1786. 43 

Monday afternoon, 3 o'clock; March 31, 1777. 

The commissioners met pursuant to adjournment. 

Present, Lewis Burvvell, Esq., Chairman, &c., 

The report was read a second time and taken into 
consideration ; after some time spent thereon, 

Resolved, That the further consideration of it be 
deferred till to-morrow morning. 

Adjourned till to-morrow morning, 10 o'clock. 

Tuesday morning, 10 o'clock, April 1, 1777. 

The commissioners met pursuant to adjournment 

Present, Lewis Burvvell, Esq., Chairman, &c. 

The consideration of the report was resumed. 

A motion was made and seconded, that the report be 
rejected, and the question being put it was received in 
the negative, in the manner following : viz : 

For the affirmative, Pennsylvania, Delaware, Mary- 
land. 

For the negative. New York, New Jersey, Virginia. 

Adjourned till 3 o'clock, afternoon. 

Tuesday afternoon, 3 o'clock. 
The commissioners met pursuant to adjournment. 
Present, Lewis Burwell, Esq., Chairman, &c. 
Adjourned till ten o'clock, to-morrow morning. 

Wednesday morning, 10 o'clock. 

The commissioners met pursuant to adjournment. 

Present, Lewis Burwell, Esq., Chairman, &c. 

Mr. Braceo moved, and was seconded by Mr. Bruce, 



44 CORRESPONDENCE OF THE NEW JERSEY [1777. 

that the report be amended as follows : In the third 
resolve after the word "labor" leave out the word "and" 
and after the word "manufactures" insert the words, 
internal produce within those states, and of goods 
imported from foreign parts, except military stores and 
coarse woolens, linens, felt hats, coarse hosiery, and 
men's common shoes for the use of the| army only, 
implements of manufacture, medicines, raw hides and 
salt. 

For the question, Delaware. 

Against the question, New York, New Jersey, Penn- 
sylvania, Virginia. Maryland divided. 

Adjourned till 4 o'clock in the afternoon. 

Wednesday, 4 o'clock, afternoon. 

The commissioners met pursuant to adjournment. 

Present, Lewis Burwell, Esq., chairman, &c. 

After some time spent in the consideration of the 
report, the commissioners came to the following resolu- 
tion, viz : Whereas, it appears in the course of the 
proceedings of the board, that there is a great dissimi- 
larity of sentiment among the commissioners, about the 
measures to be adopted for remedying the evils occa- 
sioned by the fluctuating and exorbitant prices of labor, 
manufactures, and internal produce within these states, 
and of goods imported from foreign parts, except mili- 
tary stores : some conceiving themselves restricted by 
the resolves of Congress and the instructions received 
from their respective legislatures, from entering into any 
regulations but such as shall directly limit the prices of 



1777.] EXECUTIVE FROM 1776 TO 1786. 45 

those articles : — while others, conceiving that such 
regulations will be productive of the most fatal conse- 
quences to these states, are for adopting measures which 
in their opinion will in their operation tend to counter- 
act the causes which have occasioned the evils so justly 
complained of. From whence it is evident that this 
Board cannot proceed with unanimity in establishing 
any particular system of measures for answering the 
purpose of their meeting : — Therefore, Resolved unan- 
imously, That certified copies of the proceedings of 
the Board be transmitted to Congress, and to the res- 
pective legislatures of New York, New Jersey, Penn- 
sylvania, Delaware, Maryland, and Virginia ; and that 
this meeting be dissolved. 
A true copy. 

LEWIS BURWELL, Chairman. 
Signed Thursday evening, 

By candle-light, April 3, 1777. 



From General Heard to Governor Livingston. 

Head -Quarters, Raritan, April 1st, 1777. 

Sir, — Inclosed you have the copy of a letter I 
received from Colonel Beavers, in the county of Hun- 
terdon, by which you will see what a bad situation the 
militia of that battaUon are in on account of the 
Captains of the several companies refusing to do their 
duty. I should be glad of your directions how to pro- 
ceed in the matter, that the men may be brought here ; 
they being very muoh wanted at present, as many of 
the militia's times expire this day. 



46 CORRESPONDENCE OF THE NEW JERSEY [1777. 

Likewise should be glad of directions to know what 
is to be done with people that refuse to give up their 
protections, as I have now a man under confinement 
that refuses to give his up. The mihtia law points out 
no mode of what is to be done with such people. 

There is a villain apprehended with a warrant found 
with him to enhst men for the British army, and now in 
confinement, who has informed me there are many per- 
sons out now upon the same business, chiefly in Sussex 
county, the names of which you will find on the back 
of the letter enclosed, and beg you will direct such 
methods for the apprehending them as you shall think 
most proper. I should have sent after them myself, but 
have so few troops now here thought proper not to 
spare them, but to wait your directions. 

I am, sir, your humble servant, 

NATHANIEL HEARD. 



From Colonel Beavers to General Heard, enclosed in 
the foregoing. 

March 29th, 1777. 
Sir, — This is the second time the other field officers 
and myself have met on the orders you have sent me, 
and can do nothing, as three of the Captains of this 
battalion refuse to act ; nor have they warned a man in 
their companies on either of the orders, to wit : Captain 
Shenard, Captain Meddler and Captain Cliue. I am 
and have been very unwell for some time or would 
have waited on you myself with pleasure, for your direc- 



1777.] EXECUTIVE FROM 1776 TO 1786. 47 

tions aud advice on this important occasion, and must 
beg that favor by the bearer, Major Pettit, who can 
inform you of our whole proceedings. 

I have the honor, sir, to subscribe myself your hum- 
ble servant, 

JOS. BEAVERS. 
To General Heard. 

A list of the persons' names now enhsting men for 
the British army — 

Robert Ellison, (late Squire) in Sussex. 
Peter Anderson, do. 

Wilham Hutchinson, do. 

John Ensley, (Sergeant) do. 

Hutchinson is soon expected at Brunswick with his 
company. 



Fro?R Charles Pettit to Governor Livingston. 

Burlington, April 5th, 1777. 

Dear Sir, — You are already informed of mv situa- 
tion respecting the residence of my familv. I am 
obliged to remove them from the house they \\q\\ 
occtipy, aud have no otlier provided for their reception. 
I have already taken not a httle pains to procure a 
house, but without success, and it is an object of so 
much importance to me that I must still pursue it. 
Had I been at liberty a month or six weeks ago to give 
attention to tliis business, I find I might have accom- 
phshed it with much less difficulty. This, however, 
being business of a private nature, I should not have 



48 CORRESPONDENCE OF THE NEW JERSEY [1777. 

troubled your Excellency with it, but by way of apology 
for what follows. The Legislature have thought fit to 
vest Mr. Bowes Reed, Mr. Joseph Newbold and myself, 
or either of us, w ith authority to move the records now 
in the Secretary's office, in case of alarm, to some place 
of safety. How soon such alarm may happen is very 
uncertain ; and from the circumstances I have men- 
tioned it is very probable that when the hour arrives, I 
may be engaged in my family affairs, probably at a con- 
siderable distance from this place, that I cannot give it 
due attendance, I am also apprehensive that if it be 
deferred till the enemy are on the march this way, it 
will be very difficult to get the business effected : 
indeed, even now, I doubt whether teams could be got 
in this neighborhood to engage in it without military 
authority. Were it within my official duty, it might 
be said that my private concerns should give place to 
it. But as it is altogether extra-official, I am persua- 
ded that it will not be expected. I mean not, however, 
to withdraw myself from it from any other motive than 
necessity, and I am persuaded the circumstances of my 
family will for the present sufficiently plead my excuse. 
If I can get them settled in time, I will turn my atten- 
tion to this lousiness. But it seems to me that if it be 
proper to move the records, no time should be lost in 
getting about it. Were I to attend wholly to it, I 
should wish to have the advice of your Excellency 
and the Council of Safety as to the place, and the route 
by which they are to be taken, and I conceive it is my 
duty to lay the matter thus before you. It is indeed a 



1777.] EXECUTIVE FROM 1776 TO 1786. 49 

business of an Executive nature, which the Board, I 
beheve, might have undertaken without the special 
act for the purpose, and in which they will now, 
probably, think propei to give their aid, especially as 
coercive power may be necessary in the doing ol it. 
The boxes to pack the books and papers in are ready 
in the office. From the present very uncertain situa- 
tion of our affairs, I have not been able to fix any 
opinion as to the place the records should be moved to. 
Your means of intelligence are so much better than 
mine that you can determine on better grounds. I 
earnestly wish the Board would be pleased to give 
such advice and direction in the matter as they think 
best. Mr. Newbold lives within a few miles of Bor- 
dentown, and may be easily consuked with. Mr. 
Reed will probably be at hand to superintend the 
packing up. Perhaps the necessary wagons may be 
procured at Bordentown. 

I am, with great respect, your Excellency's most 
obedient and humble servant, 

CHAS. PETTIT. 
His Excellency, Gov. Livingston. 



From Silas Condict to Governor Livingston 

Morristown, April 7th, 1777. 

Dear Sir, — This day I received your favor of the 

23d ult, wherein you acquaint me that I have been 

appointed one of the Council of Safety. I am much 

concerned that you have so lew members attending at 

4 



50 CORRESPONDENCE OF THE NEW JERSEY [1777. 

this critical season, and although it is extremely difficult 
at present for me to leave home (my family being in- 
oculated, and not yet through the small pox,) yet I will 
come at any time, rather than public business should 
sutfer, on notice given me that it is necessary. Col. 
DeHart told me to-day that the battalion had arranged 
its officers, and only wanted an opportunity to present 
it for commission. The Colonel says that he has at 
Gen. Washington's request examined several of the 
prisoners now in iail here, and that it will be best for 
the Council of Safety to sit in this county soon ; and 
if this is thought proper, I think it will be best to sit 
either at Mendham, or at Capt. Dunn's in Roxberry, 
as the army is still at Morristown, and it will be incon- 
venient to sit there. 

I am, with great respect, yonr most obedient and 
humble servant, 

SILAS CONDICT. 
His Excellency, Gov. Livingston. 



Froin William Smith and Benjamin Rumseij, to 
Governor Livingston. 

Philadelphia, April 8th, 1777. 
giR^ — Mr. Campbell being a gentleman unknown to 
us, we have made inquiry into his character, and have 
the pleasure to be informed that there was_[a gentleman 
of that name of a good and fair character who lived 
in St. Mary's county, in Maryland, married there, and 
had children; that he lost his wife and carried his 



1777.] EXECUTIVE FROM 1776 TO 1786. 51 

children to Scotland about two years ago to be educa- 
ted. That he is in the possession of property, and has 
always been zealously attached to the liberties of 
North America, having stepped forth as early in her 
cause as any of her sons. As he appears to be the 
man, we are of the opinion that he may be released by 
your Excellency, as we esteem him a good fellow 
citizen, a thing rare in his countrymen with us, and 
cannot apprehend the least danger from him. 

We are your Excellency's most humble servants, 

WM. SMITH. 

BEN J. RUMSEY. 
His Excellency, Gov. Livingston. 



Examination of Jesse Woodward. 

Allen Town, April 10th, 1777. 

The examination and confession of Jesse Wood- 
ward. 

He says he has pressed wagons, and disarmed a 
certain Arthur Livingston, and took John Hendrick- 
son's gun out of his wagon on the road near Buckelow's 
for the use of the British army : that he went from his 
house about the last of December 1776, into the Pines 
about ten miles from his house, and lived in one of the 
cabins for about a week at a time, and sometimes went 
home and removed to a cabin on Crosswick's Creek 
above Wall's Mill, where he has lived for about three 
or four weeks past. 

He has seen Thomas Fowler and Nicholas Williams 



52 CORRESPONDENCE OF THE NEW JERSEY [1777* 

since his going to the last mentioned cabin, and says 
they came to him and he had some conversation with 
them, and that he understood from his cliildren they 
were under the same circumstances that he was. He 
says he had no authority from any person in the British 
or Hessian army to impress horses or wagons, but that 
he weni in company with others that went to press 
wagons, viz. Anthony Woodward, commonly called 
little Anthony, and that his brother Anthony Wood- 
ward, commonly called black Nat, was in company 
with them ; he says he has left his gun in a tree in the 
woods, somewhere between his former cabin and the 
one he last lived in, with some powder and shot. 

He says he with the others above mentioned was at 
Jacob Hendrickson's, and that he ordered a wagon and 
two horses from there ; and that he saw Samuel Wood- 
ward sometime about the fall of the last snow at his 
house ; that Fowler and Williams were with him the 
best part of a night ; went last to see him at his cabin, 
but he don't recollect the day of the week or how 
many days ago. He says he only impressed the 
wagon for the British army, and not the guns, as he 
says he intended to return them to the owners. 

Taken before me the day and date above written, 
and in the presence of Col. Brearley. 

FRAN'S WADE, at Allen Town. 



1777.] EXECUTIVE FROM 1776 TO 1786. 53 

Fi-om Francis Wade to Governor Livingston. 

Allen Town, April 10th, 1777. 

Sir, — I was handed your obliging favor of the 9th 
instant, last night, since v\'hich Lewis Bastedo and the 
party with him have succeeded so far as to secure Jesse 
Woodward, whom I have examined, and have now en- 
closed his confession to you to lay before the honorable 
the Council of Safety, and himself a prisoner for farther 
examination. I find he is very backward in giving any 
information. You'll find by his confession and Fowler's, 
that they differ much in the time of their last meeting 
and talking together ; it however plainly appears that 
there is a gang of them living among the pines and no 
doubt in readiness to shew themselves whenever oppor- 
tunity offers. I therefore think it a duty incumbent on 
me for the good of the service, to continue here until I 
represent this matter to his Excellency, General Wash- 
ington, notwithstanding I have liis letter, if my private 
affairs call me home to go, 

I am much obhged for your Excellency's, and the 
Honorable the Council's approbation" of my conduct, 
and hope to deserve it on all occasions when the ser- 
vice of my country calls on me. 

I am, very respectfully, sir, your most obedient and 
most humble servant, 

FRAN'S WADE. 
To His Excellency, Wm. Livingston, Esq., Governor 

of New Jersey. 

P. S. I have not heard farther about the corps of 
Williams. I am of opinion it is agreeable to Gen'l 



54 CORRESPONDENCE OF THE NEW JERSEY [1777. 

Washington's general orders that Bastedo should have 
the rifle and gun taken from Fowler and Williams. If 
you and the honorable Council are of the same opinion 
shall be glad to know, and shall act accordingly. You 
have, inclosed, a note left by Col. Samuel Forman. 
Ammunition is much wanted, if any, it would be well 
to send some by the party. 

From General Washingto?i to Governor Livingston. 

Head-Quarters, Morristown, April 16, 1777. 

Sir, — I am honored with yours of the 14th. I don't 
know whether Col. Duyckink comes properly under 
the civil or military jurisdiction, but from the following 
state of the facts on which I ordered him to be secured, 
you will be able to form a judgment ; and if you think 
he falls within the civil line, I will most cheerfully give 
him up to you. 

Some time in the winter, Col. Duyckink came vol- 
untarily out of Brunswick, and surrendered himself to 
Genl. Dickinson, at Millstone ; said he had seen my 
proclamation, and had come to take the benefit of it ; 
that he had been ill-used by the British army, and that 
he was determined to remain with his countrymen. 
Genl. Dickinson sent him up to me ; he told me the 
same story and I permitted him to go at large. Some 
little time after this, he applied to Lord Stirling for lib- 
erty to return again to Brunswick, who not being 
acquainted with the circumstances, granted him per- 
mission ; but before he went Genl. Dickinson, luckily 
jeceived information from a person who came out of 



1777.] EXECUTIVE FROM 1776 TO 1786. 55 

Brunswick, who told him he had heard Cortlandt 
Skinner tell Duyckink "he was afraid it would not do, 
and that there would be danger in the experiment," 
meaning his going out under pretence of becoming a 
convert. Upon this he was stopped and carried before 
Genl. Green, who asked him what was the reason of 
this sudden alteration in his sentiments. He said that 
he could not in conscience take the oaths to the state, 
as he had taken the oath of allegiance to the king; 
that the people in the country threatened his life ; 
and that he thought he had better return to Brunswick. 
Genl. Green asked him if he had not considered the mat- 
ter of taking the oaths to the state before he came out, 
as he owned he had seen the proclamation. But he 
gave such evasive answers that it convinced us that he 
only came out to get intelligence, and I therefore had 
him apprehended and sent to Philadelphia, where he 
has been since confined. He is looked upon as so dan- 
gerous a man by the well affected in this part of the 
country, that I believe his being set at liberty, and suf- 
fered to remain in the country, would create great 
uneasiness. 

I have the honor to be, with great respect, sir, } our 
most obedient servant, 

GEO. WASHINGTON 

His excellency. Gov. Livingston. 



56 CORRESPONDENCE OF THE NEW JERSEY [1777- 

From Francis Hopkinson to Governor Livingston. 

Philadelphia, Friday. 

Dear Sir, — The enclosed letter is from a Committee 
of Congress, requesting that you would cause John 
Curlis to be apprehended and examined. 

Mr. Wilson is at present so engaged in the investiga- 
tion of a dangerous plot, (the particulars of which I 
have wrote to Mrs. Hopkinson,) that he could not be 
so explicit as he could wish, and therefore requested me 
to inform you that the desire of the Committee is, that 
you would be so good as to have this Curlis strictly 
examined, and if you find sufficient grounds of suspi- 
cion, or any direct proof against him, that he may be 
forwarded to Philadelphia. 

The Congress have it much at heart to discover by 
what means the packet of Bristol was conveyed to 
Lord Howe, and to have the traitors brought to light. 
As I gave you all the particulars of this affair that had 
come to my knowledge, there is no occasion to repeat 
them now. Only this I would observe, that it will be 
necessary for you to have the evidence of Bassonet's 
bar-keeper at Bristol. But I fear CurUs has taken such 
good care of himself that he will save you and us any 
further trouble. 

With compliments to Mr. and Mrs. Imley, I have the 
honor to be 

Your friend and humble servant, 

FRA^ HOPKINSON. 



1777.] EXECUTIVE FROM 1776 TO 1786. 57 

From General Futnam to Governor Livingston. 

Princeton, April 25th, 1777. 
Dear Sir, — Under a guard I send you Stephen Flood, 
Jacob Dancer, John Butler Linch, and an old William 
Halfpenny, who have been taken going in and out of 
Brunswick. 

Inclosed is a copy of a letter from Major Scudder, 
by which you will see what Flood is accused of, and 
several depositions against Dancer. 

Flood was sent to me without any crime, and nothing 
(thus) appearing against him, I gave him a pass to 
Philadelphia ; and afterwards received the inclosed 
from Major Scudder. I sent immediately after and 
secured him. 

Elizabeth Brewer, whose deposition you have in- 
closed, was taken coming out of Brunswick, and 
brought before me. She gave information of one Lucas 
Voorhees, hkewise of Linch and Halfpenny, whom I 
now send you, and many others whom I have sent for, 
but not yet secured. 

There was nothing particular appearing against Voor- 
hees, and I (of consequence) dismissed him, first taking 
his parole not to communicate any intelligence to the en- 
ehiy relative to the situation or strength of the American 
army ; but on the contrary to immediately communicate 
all the intelligence he can collect of the movement and 
intentions of the British army to some of the officers in 
the continental service. The ^bove Ehzabeth Brewer 
has an inchnation to enter the hospital as a nurse, in 



58 CORRESPONDENCE OF THE NEW JERSEY [1777. 

which employment she has been before engaged at 
this place ; and the surgeon giving her a good character, 
I have thought proper to detain her here for that pur- 
pose. 

If you. have any objections, and will let me know, I 
will send her immediately to you. 

I am, sir, with utmost respect, your most obedient, 
humble servant, 

ISRAEL PUTNAM. 

His excellency, Governor Livingston. 



Fro??i Rev. A. Mc Whorter and Elisha Boudinot to Gov- 
ernor Livingston. 

Newark, April 26, 1777. 
May it please your excellency : — The unhappy situa- 
tion of this town, being so contiguous to the enemy, 
who threaten us daily with an invasion, renders it 
absolutely necessary that the militia of this place should 
be put on a more respectable footing, and officered with 
gentlemen whose tried fidelity in a time of distress 
entitles them to the confidence of their country. A 
number of the inhabitants have agreed to recommend 
as officers the persons mentioned in the enclosed peti- 
tion to your excellency. And as some particular reasons 
render it absolutely necessary that no time should be 
lost in having proper officers appointed, we have sent 
Mr. Banks as an express. He is a person who is ca- 
pable of giving a true representation of the state of the 
town, and who may be depended on. If your excel- 



1777.] EXECUTIVE FROM 1776 TO 1786. 59 

lency and the council should approve of the gentlemen 
recommended, we beg Mr. Banks may be dispatched 
with the commissions immediately. 

We have the honor to be your excellency's most 
ob't and h'ble servants, 

A. McWHORTER. 
ELISHA BOUDINOT. 
Governor Livingston. 



From Major Taylor to Governor Livingston. 

Cranbury, May 7, 1777. 

May it please your Excellency : — By a letter received 
from Major-General Putnam, I was commanded imme- 
diately to apprehend Peter Overt, Mr. Lake and Fran- 
cis Letts, hving near Raritan river, in tiie county of 
Middlesex, and send them to your excellency. The 
general informed me that they have lately been trading 
with the enemies of our country with potatoes and 
some other articles. They carried on this trade by 
means of one Halfpenny, a very old man, and an in- 
habitant of the same part of the country with them- 
selves. There have been many complaints brought 
against those men this winter past ; but not sufficient 
evidence appearing, they have as yet been unpunished. 
From your humble servant, 

JOHN TAYLOR, 
Commanding officer at Cranbury. 
His excellency, William Livingston, Esq., 
Governor of the State of New Jersey. 



60 CORRESPONDENCE OF THE NEW JERSEY [1777. 

From Major Taylor to Governor Livingston. 

Cranbury, May 15, 1777. 

May it please your excellency: — This morning sent 
on under guard two prisoners, taken by a party from 
this post, within one mile of the enemy's lines, going to 
Brunswick as they themselves confess. The name of 
the one is Thomas Woodburn from Crossnecks, with 
whom I am unacquainted, but his neighbors give him a 
very bad character. The other's name is Thomas 
Williams, who is also a stranger to me : he says that 
he formerly taught an English school in different parts 
of the country : he came from New York four weeks 
past, and was now endeavoring to return. These kind 
of men are certainly very dangerous to the state, yet it 
is very difficult to obtain any evidence against them, 
further than what we ourselves do observe. If I can 
possibly get any more evidence against John Brown, 
alias Lee, sent to Haddonfield from this place, I will 
immediately send it on to the governor. 

From your very humble servant at command, 

JOHN TAYLOR, Major 2d BattaUon. 
To his Excellency, W. Livingston. 



From Colonel Brearly to Governor Livingston. 

Allentown, May 19, 1777. 
Sir, — Your excellency will have delivered herewith 
a certain Giles Williams, who left this state last sum- 
mer with Elisha Laurener and others, and joined the 



1777.] EXECUTIVE FROM 1776 TO 1786. 61 

enemy on Staten Island ; he has for some time past 
been hirking in the Pines with a set of villains, but 
was very luckily taken last night in the edge of the 
Pines, by Lieut. Barton, and sent up to this place. 

I am your excellency's most obedient and humble 
servant, 

DAVD BREARLEY, Jun. 
His excellency, Governor Livingston. 



Fi'om John Cox and Elijah Clark, to the Pi-esident of 
the Council of Safety. 

Forks of Little Egg Harbor, June 12th, 1177. 
Sir, — We this morning received information from 
Capt. Bradley, at the Foxborough, that on the 10th 
instant, about six o'clock in the evening, a brig 
appeared off Little Egg Harbor Inlet, and made a 
signal for a Pilot, on which Joseph Sowey with 
his brother and two boys went off to conduct her 
into port, and were unluckily taken and carried off. 
Immediately on taking them on board, the brig pro- 
ceeded to the mouth of Great Egg Harbor Inlet, where 
she again threw out a signal for a pilot, on which Mr. 
Golder, a noted man in that way, went off with his 
boat, and on approaching near enough to discover what 
she was, finding her to be a vessel ot force, and observ- 
ing her to hoist out her boat to windward, which was 
managed with some degree of precipitation, he immedi- 
ately put about, and pushed for the shore, the enemy's 
boat pursuing with only two men appearing, and on 



62 CORRESPONDENCE OF THE NEW JERSEY [1777. 

coming withiu about one hundred yards, a number of 
men instantly showed themselves, and fired on Golder 
and crew, who with some difficulty gained the shore, 
but were obliged to quit their boat, which fell into the 
hands of the enemy. As Sowey is one of our best 
pilots, and well acquainted with our Inlet, we doubt 
not he will be made use of by the enemy to bring in 
their tenders, and pilot them up the bay and river; 
which may be productive of the most fatal consequen- 
ces, the inhabitants being in the most helpless condition 
and having a great number of cattle and other property 
that must immediately fall into the hands of the pirates, 
unless some spirited steps are immediately taken to 
prevent it ; and being desirous of doing everything in 
our power to disappoint them, we have presumed to 
take from Capt. Shaler eight or ten pieces of cannon, 
belonging to a sloop of his lately cast away on the 
coast, which we have this day ordered down to the 
Foxboroughs, under his direction, with orders immedi- 
ately to throw up a battery to defend the Inlet, and to 
annoy the enemy as much as possible, should they 
attempt an entrance. 

There is now at Foxboroughs a guard of about 20 
men, and Col. Clark will immediately order down as 
many more, to assist in doing the necessary work. 
Powder and provisions for the people will be immedi- 
ately wanted. Shot can be procured here. We doubt 
not the hon'le Council will think it expedient to 
lose no time in giving the necessary directions for 
effecting what they may think ought to be done on 
this alarming occasion. 



1777.] EXECUTIVE FROM 1776 TO 1786. 63 

We are, with great respect, your most ob't and 
h'e ser'ts, JOHN COX. 

ELIJAH CLARK. 
The Hon. the President of the Council of Safety. 



Fi'om the President of the Continental Congress to 
Governor Livingston. 

Philadelphia, June 12th, 1777. 
Sir, — You are hereby requested to order out forth- 
with five hundred of the niihtia of the state of New 
Jersey, to assist in completing the works now erecting 
at BilUngsport for the defence of the river Delaware, 
it being of the utmost consequence that the fortifica- 
tions at that place should be completed without delay. 
By order of Congress, 

JOHN HANCOCK, Prest. 
His Excellency, Gov. Livingston. 



From Judge Morris to Governor Livingston. 

Newtown, June 14th, 1777. 
Sir, — Enclosed your Excellency has a list of the 
convictions, and the judgments thereon, at this very- 
tedious, and I would have said, premature Court, if the 
Council had not thought expedient on mature delibera- 
tion to have appointed it. I had the pleasure to find 
Mr. Justice Symms here at my arrival, and confess if 
I had supposed the Council would have spared him for 
the business, I would not have travelled post over the 



64 CORRESPONDENCE OF THE NEW JERSEY [1777. 

mountains through the rain and late into the night on 
SO very short a notice. 

Judges young in office, and not appointed for their 
legal erudition, associates but reputable farmers, doctors 
or shopkeepers, young officers, no council nor clerk, for 
want of timely notice, which was not even given to the 
sheriff, and this in a disaffected country, both witnesses 
and criminals to be collected from all parts of the state. 
Thus circumstanced was a court of the highest expect- 
ancy ever held in New Jersey ; a court for trial of a 
number of state criminals, some for high treason, a 
crime so little known in New Jersey, that perhaps the 
first lawyer in it would not know how to enter judg- 
ment under our constitution. It would make an excel- 
lent paragraph in Gaine's veritable Mercury ; no other 
printer would venture to publish it. In England where 
treasons and rebelUons are from immemorial usage, 
become familiar terms, twelve learned judges from the 
first courts in the world, the members of privy council, 
and the first gentlemen in the kingdom, would have 
been sent on such an errand, and attended by old and 
experienced officers, and the ablest council at the bar ; 
witnesses prepared, criminals to try, and seasonable 
notice given. But there the law is systematically ad- 
ministered, and the ministers of it have settled forms of 
practice, under an old constitution well understood. 
And here we have a new modelled government, incom- 
plete in parts, young in practice, and contingencies un- 
provided for. 

Seriously, sir, with due submission to the council, I 



.1777.] EXECUTIVE FROM 1776 TO 1786. 65 

should have thought that for a court of such conse- 
quence, the members of the council and some of the 
bar ought to have been joined in the commission 
and requested to attend. We have set with great pa- 
tience, and have now closed the third week. Had it 
not been for the negligence or villainy of a rascally 
gaoler, in suffering John Eddy, the only person indicted 
for high treason, to escape yesterday morning, I flatter 
myself we should have acquitted ourselves with tolera- 
ble success, and I hope have given satisfaction to the 
good people. This escape has given me much uneasi- 
ness, as I fear it will be undeservedly attributed to the 
inattention of the court. K the gaoler was not privy 
to the escape, which did not appear, he is perhaps too 
severely punished. The court in fixing his punishment 
had a retrospective eye to past abuses of this sort, and 
thought an early example of severity would be hkely 
to prevent them in future. He appears to be a young 
simple fellow, unacquainted with the duties of his office, 
and not fully instructed by the sheriff, who has been 
almost daily cautioned on the subject. This gaoler's 
case is recommended to the mercy of your excellency 
and council, at such season as you shall judge expedient 
to exercise it. Mr. Att'y Gen'l will inform you of the 
particular demerits of the other convicts ; some of them 
may hereafter be entitled to partial pardons ; I wish I 
could say they were at this time. The httle time the 
members of the court had for considering the commis- 
sion after my arrival, hurried us into a matter which on 
further consideration I confess I am not satisfied with 

5 



66 CORRESPONDENCE OF THE NEW JERSEY [1777. 

I mean the short time between the teste and return 
for the praecipe for the Grand Jury. In England I 
observe fifteen days was ordered, on mature deUbera- 
tion, of all the judges acting under the special com- 
mission of 1746. What the practice has been in New 
Jersey we do not know, as the clerk has none of the 
former circuit papers. If we have erred, it is partly 
chargeable on the council for appointing the court so 
shortly after issuing the commission, and they are 
bound to get the legislature to cure it. Had I had half 
an hour's time for thinking of the matter, it should 
have been otherwise. 

In your letter notifying me of this court, you ob- 
serve that my not attending the courtat Burlington 
had given uneasiness. Whatever private individuals 
might have thought, I am persuaded no member of 
the legislature had the least right to expect my attend- 
ance. Two hundred miles a day is rather hard 
travelling, and even that would not have done unless 
they suppose me possessed of the spirit of divina- 
tion. I accepted my present office to manifest my 
resolution to serve my country. I mean to do the duty 
of it while I hold it, according to my best judgment. 
Whenever the legislature think they can fill it more 
advantageously, the tenor of my commission shall not 
disappoint them. 

The court rose without adjournment, as it was not 
supposed they would have occasion to set again, 
unless Eddy should be retaken. If this should be 
the case I hope one of the other justices will be able 



1777.] EXECUTIVE FROM 1776 TO 1786. 67 

to attend ; I fear I shall not. I wish the legislature 
before another court sits would take under consider- 
ation the judgment in high treason, — old indictments 
at the suit of the king, — and some other difficulties in 
former practice, which the Att'y Gen 1 will mention to 
you. 

I have the honor to be your excellency's very hum- 
ble serv't, 

ROB'T MORRIS. 
Gov'r Livingston. 

From Charles Pettit to Governor Livingston. 

Burlington, June 15, 1777. 

Dear Sir, — You will receive herewith a dra^iight of 
a Commission of Oyer and Terminer, which I have 
made from one of the old forms ; it is a translation as 
liberal as the change of style will admit. I send also, 
by way of cover, the draught of the late commission for 
Sussex, so that you may have an opportunity of com- 
paring them. On farther consideration, (though I have 
had no opportunity of examining books,) I am better 
satisfied that the Court of Oyer and Terminer may be 
legally held under such commission, if it were only by 
virtue of the Act for reviving and establishing the 
courts of justice. The only doubt that remains is the 
appointment of assistant justices to those of the Su- 
preme Court, as it may be said they ought to be elected 
by the Council and Assembly ; if so, it might be well 
at their next meeting to elect a set of associates for 
each county. 



68 CORRESPONDENCE OF THE NEW JERSEY [1777- 

The late movement of the enemy has put the miUtia 
pretty generally in motion, except in this county where 
but few have turned out ; something more may yet 
perhaps be done with them, especially as they hear 
their neighbors are going with cheerfulness and confi- 
dent of success. 

Friday and Saturday we were not quite free from 
alarming apprehensions, knowing but Uttle of the ene- 
my's strength, what course they would take, or what 
numbers of militia would turn out to aid our army ; 
but we now imagine they will not reach far westward 
of Brunswick. I have, however, moved away the 
boxes I was some time ago desired to prepare, with 
their contents, leaving nothing but a few conveniences, 
for current business. You will know what I mean by 
this description. 

You will scarcely expect anything in the news-way 
from me, as the attention of every one is now so fixed 
on the transactions of the part of the country you are 
nearer to than 1 aui. I may, however, mention a 
report we had on Saturday last, (which seemed to come 
straight, and has not been contradicted,) that the enemy 
had invested Egg Harbor Inlet, and taken out two sloops 
and a larger vessel outward bound. 

I am, with great respect, D'r sir, your most obedient, 
humble servant, 

CHAS. PET TIT. 

His excellency, Governor Livingston. 



1777.] EXECUTIVE FROM 1776 TO 1786. 69 

Fro7n General Heard to the Council of Safety. 

Pompton, June 17th, 1777. 

Gentlemen, — I send down tliis day several persons 
for your examination. They are charged with taking 
away in an unlawful manner some tea stored at Para- 
mus. I also send Major Gordon with several exami- 
nations, and orders from his Excellency, General 
Washington, respecting it, and as they were not in 
actual service at the time of taking said tea, must refer 
them for your determination. The quantity of tea 
missing supposed to be near four hundred weight. Mr, 
Gordon will inform you more particularly. 

I am, gent., your liumb. ser't, 

NATHANIEL HEARD. 
Council of Safety. 



From Charles Fettit to Governor Livingston. 

Burlington, June 19th, 1777. 

Dear Sir, — I had the honor to enclose to you a few 
days ago a draught of a commission of Oyer and Ter- 
miner, &c., but as conveyances are uncertain, I know 
not when it may reach you. Last evening I received 
the enclosed letter from Col. Cox, and in order to 
convey it to you, I shall send this to the commanding 
officer at Bristol, with a request to forward it, either by 
the return of an express, or by some officer going to 
head quarters. I would beg leave to recommend it to 
your Excellency's consideration, whether it would not 



70 CORRESPONDENCE OF THE NEW JERSEY [1777. 

be proper to order a part of the militia to watch the 
motions of the enemy about the Egg Harbor Inlets. I 
have been informed the militia, from Trenton upwards, 
have turned out with great zeal and unanimity. I also 
heard they are doing the hke in the counties southw^ard 
of this ; but that from an apprehension of danger on 
their own coasts, where the enemy's vessels are con- 
stantly in view, and daily making descents in small 
parties, they will march very reluctantly from that 
quarter. Some, however, are on their march, and from 
what I can learn they would come from thence pretty 
generally, were it not for the consideration I have 
mentioned ; and they now think themselves the more 
exposed there, as tlie Pennsylvania troops are withdrawn 
from BilUngsport. Your Excellency will judge how far 
it will be proper to alter the orders respecting the militia 
of the southern counties. As to this county, I fear but 
httle is to be expected. A baneful influence has been 
too much spread among the people, and though there 
are yet many among them who would willingly act 
with propriety if they knew how to set about it, their 
services are lost to the pubhc for want of active and 
spirited officers of w eight and influence to collect and 
draw them to a point. In these alarming times, there 
seems to be a necessity for some established mode of 
conveyance from this quarter of the state to your 
Excellency. At present, were the exigency ever so 
pressing, I should scarcely know by what route to send 
an express to you, or where you might be found. 
In the neighborhood of the army, I apprehend the 



1777.] EXECUTIVE FROM 1776 TO 1786. 71 

military power must in a great measure overshadow 
the civil, but at this distance from it, the Executive 
power of the government would give vigor to the 
pubhc measures. As to affairs merely of a civil nature, 
there may not be immediate necessity to call your 
Excellency's attention to them, as the government is so 
far established in this quarter of the state as to work its 
way pretty well in the ordinary course. But having 
the enemy all around the coast, exigences are constantly 
arising which require exertions and military arrange- 
ments that I am apprehensive our officers are not equal 
to, and both the commander-in-chief of the state, and 
commander-in-chief of the army, being at so great a 
distance, I fear will be attended with inconvenience. 

I have said more than I intended when I began this 
letter, and perhaps more than it becomes me to say on 
subjects of this kind, but as it has arisen merely from a 
regard to the \^elfare of the state and the honor of your 
government, I am persuaded you will consider it as an 
emanation of friendship, rather than impute it to an 
impertinent desire of intermeddling in things out of 
my hue of duty. If the hints I have mentioned pro- 
duce any effect for the good of the state, they will not 
meet with your censure ; if otherwise, I hope they 
will be esteemed at least innocent, and escape repre- 
hension, from the goodness of the motive which gave 
rise to them. 

People in general, as well in Philadelphia as in this 
part of Jersey, are far from being dismayed at the late 
manoeuvres of the enemy : on the other hand, they 



72 CORRESPONDENCE OF THE NEW JERSEY [1777. 

think the cause never had a fairer prospect of success 
than at present. And so long as this sentiment does 
not hill us into sluggish security, it may be rather ben- 
eficial than otherwise. 

I am, with great respect, your most ob't and h'e sv't, 

CH'S PETTIT 
His Excellency, Gov. Livingston. 

From Joseph Hedden, Jr., to Governor Livingston. 

Newark, June 21st, 1777. 
Sir, — I take this opportunity by a Hght-horse sent 
by Major Hayes, to transmit to your Excellency the 
names of the women that have their husbands at New 
York or Bergen, with the enemy. Nothing new in 
this town shice I saw your Excellency. I am daily 
apphed to by some of the inhabitants of this place to 
nominate some fit person to act as deputy Surrogate. 
There are a number of wills to be proved, and letters 
of administration granted, and no person in tliis county 
qualified to act in that office. If your Excellency 
would please to appoint Elisha Boudinot, Esq., to that 
office it would greatly oblige a number of the inhabit- 
ants of this town. There yesterday came to this town 
one Caleb Bruen, who was taken prisoner about eight 
weeks ago by the enemy, at or near Paramus. I sup- 
pose he is sent by Mr. Brown and Mr. Isaac Ogden to 
get intelligence. He is to return back to New York in 
three or four days, and shows a pass from Gen. Pigot to 
come to Newark and return to New York. If your 



1777.] EXECUTIVE FROM 1776 TO 1786. 73 

Excellency thinks proper said Bruen should be per- 
mitted to return to New York, please to inform me by 
the bearer. 

I am your Excellency's most ob't and h'e serv't, 

JOS. HEDDEN.Jr, 
His Excellency, Gov. Livingston. 

Names of the Tory women. 

Ehzabeth Bailey, Hannah Ward, 

Mary Longworth, Abigail Ward, 

Sarah Crawford, Elizabeth Wheeler, 

Margaret Nichols, Mrs. Connelly, 

Catharine Longworth, Elizabeth Brown, 

Phebe Banks, Sarah Sayres, 

Lydia Sayres, Polly Wood. 



From General Dickinson to Governor Livingston. 

Boundbrook, June 26tli, 1777. 

Dear Sir, — I received yonr Excellency's letter by 
Mr, Runyon ; which together with the information 
received from several members who attended the joint 
meeting at the time of my being chosen, has given me 
the sincerest satisfaction. I do accept the commission 
of Major General as a mark of the approbation of my 
conduct, of the honorable Council and Assembly of 
this state, and shall on all occasions endeavor to render 
the most essential services in my power. 

Neither my own health, nor the situation of my 
family, would permit me to accept a commission that 



74 CORRESPONDENCE OF THE NEW JERSEY [1777. 

should oblige me to do duty as I formerly did. But 
whenever there is a general call for the militia I will 
attend, and continue as long as the militia remain out, 
or his Excellency shall think proper. I have been in- 
formed by many gentlemen of both houses tlie ap- 
pointment was made with that view. 

His Excellency, Gen. Washington, last evening re- 
quested me to send up Gen. Heard with about 500 men 
to Pompton, to take his old station. As I apprehend it 
wiU come with more propriety from your Excellency, 
I beg the favor of you to send such an order. Should 
your Excellency, upon a similar occasion in future, 
think it proper for me to issue such an order, you will 
please to signify the same. 

Several persons in the counties of Burlington 
and Hunterdon, I am informed, have an inclination 
to form themselves into a troop of horse, as there are 
not any in that part of the state ; and their utility 
being sufficiently known to your Excellency, I should 
be glad you would give permission for raising a 
troop. Captain Gamble, of Burlington county, has 
offered to raise a troop, should your Excellency think 
proper to commission him. He says young Mr. Nosder 
will accept a commission, and also Mr, Israel Carle, of 
Hunterdon county, will take the Lieutenancy. There 
may be some rules respecting this matter that I am not 
acquainted with ; whatever they are must be known to 
your Excellency. But as we have an immediate and 
pressing occasion for a number of light-horse, I beg leave 
earnestly to request you will give this matter immediate 



1777.] EXECUTIVE FROM 1776 TO 1786. 75 

dispatch. This letter is prepared in great haste, upon 
a shattered table, and in a crowded room. Your 
Excellency will therefore excuse inaccuracies. 

As his Excellency has dismissed the mihtia, upon their 
promise of an immediate return if necessary, shall go 
to Trenton for a few days if nothing material happens. 

Your Excellency's most ob't ser't, 

PHILEMON DICKINSON. 

His Excellency, Gov. Livingston. 

From Major Hayes to Governor Livingston. 

Newark, June 30, 1777. 
giR,__In pursuance of your excellency's order of the 
24th instant, ordering me to remove from the county of 
Essex certain women and children therein mentioned, 
I last Saturday sent the following women with their 
children on the east side of the Hackensack River ; 
viz: Catharine Longworth, Elizabeth Bailey, Hannah 
Ward, and Mary Wood ; Phebe Banks had gone to 
New York by way of Hackensack before the order 
came to hand. Elizabeth Wheeler is too sick to be 
removed. I cannot find any such person as Anna Clark 
Ritter in New York or Elizabethtown. 

I have the honor to be your most ob't ser't, 

SAM'L HAYES. 

His Excellency, Gov'r Livingston. 



76 CORRESPONDENCE OF THE NEW JERSEY [1777. 

From Joseph Hedden, Jr., to Governor Livingston. 

Newark, June 30, 1777. 

Sir, — On Saturday last we had an alarm here, and 
expected the enemy in town within an hour from the 
time the alarm was given. My first thought was the 
prisoners which we have confined here. Upon going 
to the jail I could find neither sheriff nor jailer to con- 
sult with in regard to their safety. The sheriff lives 
some seven miles from the town, and the jailer ten. 
The enemy can at any time they please, with a party 
of men, and with the assistance of their flat -bottomed 
boats, ravage this part of the country, and carry off who 
and what they have an inclination for ; and it is im- 
agined they will make an excursion to this place, before 
they entirely quit the Jerseys for forage and provisions. 
If your excellency and the honorable council think it 
proper the prisoners should be removed from this town, 
to some more remote part of the state, please to give 
some directions about that matter. Four of the vil- 
lains who are confined here, the sheriff has given 
liberty to use the court room, and has also given the 
jailer orders to admit certain persons to have free 
access to them, who are thought to be unfriendly to the 
country. Mr. Camp will give you more particular in- 
formation on this subject. 

I am, sir, your excellency's most ob't and hum. ser't. 

JOS. HEDDEN,Jr. 
His Excellency, Gov. Livingston. 



1777.] EXECUTIVE FROM 1776 TO 1786. 77 

Chief Justice Si/?nmes to Governor Livingston. 

Newtown, June 14th, 1777. 

SiR> — Since I wrote your excellency yesterday eve- 
ning, I have further to acquaint you, that two of the 
culprits that escaped o;i Monday are taken and brought 
back to jail. The county is all out after the others, 
and I hope more will be taken. I cannot procure the 
express I last night expected, but am promised one in 
the morning by the sheriff. I submit to your excellen- 
cy and the gentlemen of the Council of Safety, the 
great necessity there is of again opening the court of 
Oyer and Terminer in this county, to try these two for 
felony, as taking the arms and keys in the manner they 
did will no doubt tuck them up. An exhibition of this 
sort will work wonders. The people cry out to a man, 
"let them be hanged;" and a gallows was never 
adorned with two gems more deserving of it. James 
Morris and one of the Atwoods are the two taken. The 
presence of the Council of Safety, and a little more of 
the Court are as necessary at this time, as the rays of 
the sun are to vegetation. Since writing the above, the 
scouts have come in with three more, five in all. While 
the enemy are in your neighborhood, I humbly conceive 
your exertions will operate to better purpose at a dis- 
tance. " The military overshadowing the civil," says 
Mr. Pettit. 

I remain, sir, your most ob. ser't, 

JOHN C. SYMMES. 

His excellency, Governor Livingston. 



78 CORRESPONDENCE OF THE NEW JERSEY [1777. 



Newark, July 1, 1777. 

Sir, — 1 received Mr. Paterson's letter of this day, 
about half an hour since, and in compliance to your 
excellency's request, send you a list of the names of the 
prisoners confined here and at Elizabethtown, with 
their crimes, &c., &c. 

Peter Dubois, John Robinson, Eliphelet Johnson, 
Thomas Codmus, Jr., and James Nuttman imprisoned 
by the inferior court held here last week, six months for 
refusing to take the oaths of the state. 

John McGinness and Jno. Havens, imprisoned by 
said court nine months, for attempting to go over to 
the enemy. 

Isaac Ogden, an old offender, and one whom your 
excellency knows. 

George Watts and Jno. Edeson, committed to goal 
for treason, have not yet had their trials. 

Aaron Kingsland, committed for passing counterfeit 
money ; not yet had his trial. 

The above persons are in the goal of this town. 

Morris Hetfield and Baker Hendricks, removed from 
this goal, by order of the sheriff, to Elizabethtown gaol, 
and are committed for passing counterfeit money ; not 
yet had their trial. 

The enemy have left Amboy and gone over to 
Staten Island and Bergen. I think this town is 
much more exposed now than when they were below 
us. I beg your Excellency will favor me with an 



1777.] EXECUTIVE FROM 1776 TO 1786. 79 

answer by the return of the bearer, with sufficient in- 
structions. 

I am your Excellency's most humble servant, 

JOS. HEDDEN, Jun'r. 
His Excellency, William Livingston, Esq., Governor 

and Commander-in-Chief of the state of New Jersey. 



[^Drafted by Wiilia?n Pater son on the foregoing sheet.'] 

Whereas Peter Dubois, John Robinson, Eliphelet 
Johnson, Thos. Codmus, Jun'r, and James Nuttman 
stand committed in the common goal at Newark, in 
and for the county of Essex, for the space of 6 months 
by the order and judgment of the court of General Q,. 
Sessions of the Peace for the said county, for refusing 
to take the oaths of Ab. and Al., agreeably to law. 
And whereas John McGinness and John Havens were 
by order of the said court imprisoned for 9 months on 
being duly convicted of a misdemeanor for attempting 
to go over to the enemy ; and whereas Isaac Ogden, 
George Watts and John Edeson are imprisoned in the 
goal aforesaid, being charged with high treason ; and 
also whereas Aaron Kingsland and Morris Hatfield and 
Baker Hendricks are confined, the first in the goal 
aforesaid and the two latter in the goal at Elizabeth 
Town, being charged with felony for altering and pass- 
ing bills of credit, knowing them to be altered ; and it 
being represented to this board that the vicinity of 
Newark and Ehzabeth Town to Staten Island and 
other places in possession of the enemy, their exposure 
to incursions render it necessary that the persons above 

-,^ 



80 CORRESPONDENCE OF THE NEW JERSEY [1777. 

named should be removed to some more distant and 
secure place in the state. It is therefore agreed that 
the persons aforesaid be confined in the com. goal at 
Morris Town, and that orders of removal be immedi- 
ately made out and executed. 



From General Fornian to Edward Taylor. 

Middletown, Monmouth County, July 2d, 1777. 

Sir, — Several complaints have been made to me re- 
specting your conduct, particularly for acting as a spy 
amongst us, and from several corroborating circumstan- 
ces, especially that of giving information to a parly of 
tories and British, commanded by your son, George 
Taylor, late militia Col. in this county, now a refugee, 
by which means your son and his party escaped the 
pursuit of a body of militia sent to attack them. I do 
therefore enjoin it upon you that you do for the future 
confine yourself to your farm at Middletown, and do 
not re-attempt travelling the road, more than crossing it 
to go to your land on the north side of said town, unless 
by liberty obtained from the legislative body of this 
state, or this order be recalled, under the risk of being 
treated as a spy. 

Yours, &c., 

DAVID FORMAN, Brig. General. 



From Governor Livingston to General Winds. 

Moiristown, July 3d, 1777. 

Sir, — You are hereby directed to detach 200 men of 
the miUtia of this state, viz. 200 from the county of 



1777.] EXECUTIVE FROM 1776 TO 1786. 81 

Morris, and the remaining 100 from the counties of 
Sussex and Essex, to be employed in apprehending 
disaffected persons agreeably to the directions of the 
Governor and Council of Safety of this state ; and 
v\^henever the men are raised and properly equipped, 
(which is to be done with all possible expedition) you 
are to notify the same to the Governor and Council of 
Safety ; upon which you will be furnished with a hst of 
the persons to be apprehended. The men are to be 
charged. not to commit any depredations upon private 
property. 

The above detachment will only be a Major's com- 
mand. It is not expected that you will command them 
in person unless you choose to do it. By a late resolu- 
tion of Congress, no other pay is allowed to any officer, 
beyond that, to which the officer whose proper com- 
mand the detachment is would be entitled. It is 
thought that Major Hayes of New^ark would be a very 
proper officer to command the party. This order not 
being founded on the Militia Act, but merely author- 
izing the Council of Safety to call out the militia to 
carry their orders into execution, does not admit of 
any fine or compulsion. 

Your obed't serv't, 

WILL. LIVINGSTON. 



From Governor Livingston to General Washington. 

Newton, Sussex County, July 7th, 1777. 

Sir, — By order of the Council of Safety of this 
State, General Winds has collected 200 of our militia 
6 



82 CORRESPONDENCE OF THE NEW JERSEY [1777. 

to proceed to the county of Bergen under the com- 
mand of Major Hayes of Newark, a prudent and active 
officer, to apprehend such disaffected persons in that 
county as the Council of Safety think it most necessary 
for the pubhc interest to commit to jail, and to assist 
the commissioners for securing and disposing of the 
personal estates of those who have gone over to the 
enemy. These commissions cannot be properly exe- 
cuted in that county without miUtary aid. Both these 
services being of the last importance to the general 
interest, we doubt not will meet your Excellency's 
approbation and encouragement. As General Winds 
acquaints me that the men are destitute of ammunition, 
it would greatly facilitate the enterprise if they could 
be furnished out of the continental magazine and 
charged to this state, unless it is to be more properly 
considered as a continental expense. Whether I can 
with propriety ask this favor of your Excellency, to 
permit the party to draw provisions from the public 
stores, I am at a loss to determine. If not, they must 
be provided as well as they can. 

With great respect, your Excellency's most humble 
and ob't serv't, 

WILL. LIVINGSTON. 
His Excellency, Gen'l Washington. 



From Joseph Hedden, Jr., to Governor Livingston. 

Newark, July 9th, 1777. 
Sir, — The commissioners are much impeded in their 
business on account of the tory women that remain 



1777.] EXECUTIVE FROM 1776 TO 1786. 83 

with us. They secrete the goods, and conceal every 
thing they possibly can from them, which gives them a 
great deal of trouble. There is here one James 
O'Brien and his wife that have been great plunderers 
and concealers of goods, and when called upon for any 
thing, they petition to leave and go among christians, 
and not to be detained among brutes, as they call us in 
this town. Pray make an order to send them among 
their christian friends, our enemies I send the follow- 
ing list of women whose husbands are with the 
enemy — Mary Kingsland, Mary Stager, Fiha Risser, 
Sarah Garrabrant, Mary Grumfield, Ehzabeth Howet, 
Martha Hicks, Autta Van Riper, Susanna Wicks, Mary 
Garrabrant, Jane Drummond, Sarah Sayres, Lydia 
Sayres, Margaret Nichols, Elizabeth Brown, Sarah 
Crawfoot, Abigail Ward. 

Sending the above women after their husbands 
will be an advantage to the state and save the com- 
missioners a world of trouble. 

I am, Sir, your most ob't and hum. ser't, 

I JOS. HEDDEN, Jr. 

His Excellency, Gov. Livingston. 



Fro7?i Joseph Hedderi, Jr., to Governor Livingston. 

Newark, July 21st, 1777. 

Sir, — This day I received an account of sundry 
tories that were taken up by Col. Morgan the 20th 
instant, and sent by said Morgan to Major Hayes. He 
being out of the way I thought proper to acquaint your 



84 CORRESPONDENCE OF THE NEW JERSEY [1777. 

Excellency with the affair. I send the prisoners, with 
their crimes. Inclosed you have a list which Col. 
Morgan sent with them, their names are as follows : 
James Smith, Edwd. Allen, Abrm. Van Gesan, Jonah 
Allen, Corns. Van Gesan, Jno. Stager, Aaron Clawson, 
Egbert Sanders, and Isaac Van Gesan. I have sohcited 
a guard to send them to Morristown, to be examined 
by your Excellency and the Council of Safety. This 
town is this day evacuated by the continental troops, 
and no militia called in their stead. 

There is one Thomas Barrow of New York sent a 
sum of money to be paid to a gentleman in this state ; 
and as the matter hath come to the commissioners' 
knowledge, would be glad to have your Excellency's 
opinion whether the money shall be detained by the 
commissioners or given to the person for whom it was 
designed ; this said Barrow moved fromt his town last 
winter while the enemy were in possession of it. 

I am your Excellency's most humble serv't, 

JOS. HEDDEN, Jun'r. 
His Excellency, Gov. Livingston. 



From General Dickinson to Governor Livingston. 

Trenton, August 1st, 1777. 

Sir, — In consequence of business sent me by order 
of his Excellency, General Washington, I came to 
Philadelphia several days ago, and to this place last 
evening. The General then expected the fleet was 
certainly going to Philadelphia, but its real destination 



1777.] EXECUTIVE FROM 1776 TO 1786. 85 

yet remains a secret. I should be much obhged to 
your Excellency to inform me what orders you have 
issued respecting the niiUtia of this state, that I may not 
be at a loss should they make their appearance suddenly, 
as I do not intend returning to my family until the 
designs of the enemy are know^n. 

I mentioned to your Excellency some time ago the 
necessity I thought there was fof a troop of light -horse 
in this part of the state, to which I have received no 
answer : perhaps the letter never reached your Excel- 
lency. Their utility is too well known to enlarge upon 
the subject. I found great difficulty this day in pro- 
curing this express, and another to his Excellency, Gen. 
Washington. If your Excellency thinks proper to 
authorize me to raise a small troop here, and will signify 
the same by the return of this express, I will undertake 
it immediately, and doubtless it may be speedily effected. 
I could give the officers certificates (by your permission) 
and then they may receive their commissions from your 
Excellency. I would propose raising the troop in 
Hunterdon and Burlington counties, taking officers 
from both. It is a matter of immediate consequence, 
therefore beg your Excellency's answer. 

I formerly received instructions to give orders on 
either of the Treasurers for the payment of expresses, 
should be glad to have your Excellency's order respect- 
ing the same. I have employed Mr. Runyon to furnish 
them several times, who takes receipts and keeps an 
account. 

I wrote to your Excellency that I was entirely 



86 CORRESPONDENCE OF THE NEW JERSEY [1777. 

satisfied in regard to my appointment, but have not 
received the commission. Will your Excellency be 
pleased to send it by this express. 

I remain your Excellency's most ob't and humb'e ser't, 
PHILEMON DICKINSON. 
His Excellency, Gov'r Livingston. 



From William Paterson to Governor Livingston. 

Newark, August 12th, 1777. 

Dear Sir, — I have sent you a certain Mr. Macomb 
for examination. He came out of New York with a 
flag from Gen'l Jones, in order to go to Brunswick on 
private business. He landed at Amboy, where there 
was no officer to receive him ; from thence he proceed- 
ed to New Brunswick, at which place, he says, he pro- 
Cured a passport from Mr. Voorhes, a militia officer, to 
go up to Millstone. He returned to Brunswick, and 
Mr. Voorhes conducted him to Elizabethtown. This 
transaction wears a singular complexion, and is not, I 
believe, conformable to the rule which governs flags, 
and which is estabhshed in the military department. 
He has travelled through a considerable part of Jersey 
in a very improper manner. When he came to this 
place, Major Hayes was directed to take charge of him 
until he could be conveyed to Gen'l Sullivan, who, we 
understand, is the nearest general officer belonging to 
the Continental Army. However, I thought it most 
advisable to send him to your Excellency, who can 
proceed in the matter, and take such order respecting 



1777.] EXECUTIVE FROM 1776 TO 1786. 87 

him as may be judged most proper. The enemy if 
we may judge from their general course of conduct, 
would not suffer a flag from us to behave in the like 
manner, without due notice and chastisement. They 
would have consigned him instantly to the care of their 
provost guard. 

General Lee is on board of the Centurion, and Cap- 
tain Manly, of the Portland. Captain Lowrey, of Jersey, 
who was taken in the late skirmish near the Short Hills, 
was confined in the Provost in New York, and in which 
he died a few da}s ago. I am amazed that the Con- 
gress do not act agreeably to their Resolution, and push 
into exercise the law of retaliation. We deserve to be 
insulted, because we bear it. If we were to treat the 
soldiers of the enemy, who are prisoners with us, in the 
same manner that they treat our soldiers, who are pris- 
oners with them, it would soon produce a mild and 
humane course of conduct. All the Jersey officers who 
have been taken by the enemy, are now in the Provost, 
and treated in the most severe and barbarous manner. 
Perhaps a letter from your Excellency and the Council, 
addressed to Congress, might be productive of the 
happiest effect. Mr. Justice Smith arrived at this place 
yesterday about noon. The Chief Justice and Mr. 
Smith agreed that it would be improper to hold the 
next Supreme Court at Amboy, and I make no doubt 
your Excellency will be of the same opinion. I wish 
that your Excellency and the Privy Council would 
direct an ordinance to be made out altering the place, 
but not the time of holding the Court. I requested 



88 CORRESPONDENCE OF THE NEW JERSEY [1777. 

the Judges to give their opinion respecting the most 
proper place to have it held, and on considering the 
matter, they agreed that Princeton, which lies in the 
Eastern Division, would be the most proper place. 
The Supreme Court will come on the first Tuesday of 
next month. 

We have not any militia from Hunterdon, Somerset, 
or Sussez. We have an excellent Grand Jury, Mr. 
Pettit at the head of them. They have already found 
twelve bills. 

I am your Excellency's most ob't Serv't, 

Wm. paterson. 

His Excellency, Gov. Livingston. 



From Captain Webster to Colonel Frelinghuysen. 

Piscataway, August 17th, 1777. 
Sir, — I, having received information that James 
Wells and Richard Churchward, (both of which had 
left their families and gone off with the enemy,) were at 
Raritan Landing, I immediately dispatched a file of 
men out of my company to apprehend them, which, 
when brought before me, they acknowledge to have 
come from New York in order to fetch their families 
thither ; that their employment was catching clams and 
oysters for the enemy ; that they had a pass to go with- 
in the king's lines ; that they refuse to take up arms in 
defence of the American states, &c. Therefore, as our 
situation is at present very dangerous — there being no 
troops to guard between us and the enemy — I think it 



1777.] EXECUTIVE FROM 1776 TO 1786. 89 

highly necessary that such known enemies should be 
kept in custody, and not to be suffered to return un- 
punished. Upon the above confession I have given 
orders to the guard to deliver said Wells and Church- 
ward to Col. Frelinghuysen, to be dealt with by him as 
he shall think proper. 

JOHN WEBSTER, Capt. 
To Col. Frelinghuysen, 
or to either of the Commanding Officers in his absence. 



From Brig Gen. Newcomh to Governor Livingston 

Woodbury, August 25, 1777. 

Sir, Having frequently been informed, that a number 
of the inhabitants of Downs, in Cumberland county in 
this state, had made a practice of going on board the 
enemy's ships in Delaware Bay, and in other respects 
favoring the designs of the British administration in 
traitorous acts and speeches against the authority of 
these states ; — on the 5th inst., I issued orders to Major 
Ewing to detach from the militia a sufficient number for 
that purpose, and apprehend tfie persons suspected to 
be guilty as above, which orders the Major has executed, 
and makes me the following return: — That on the 7th 
inst. they proceeded as directed, and apprehended fifteen 
of the above persons, twelve of whom were discharged 
by the civil authority, on taking the oaths of the state. 
Three were convicted of the following crimes : that 
they had been on board of the enemy's ships, had met 
and treated with the enemy on shore, and had received 



9^ CORRESPONDENCE OF THE NEW JERSEY [1777. 

instructions from them how to conduct themselves in 
case of an alarm, which instructions were delivered to 
them by a certain Daniel Shaw, their ringleader, on a 
day previous to the enemy's landing, with assurance 
they would land at such an hour, as they actually did. 
It is likewise proved against said Shaw, that he had laid 
a design with his gang, to seize upon me in the night 
and take me on board the enemy's ship'; that he made 
apphcation to a blacksmith for a number of spikes to 
spike the cannon placed in a redoubt near Morris 
River, which the smith refused to do, and he was one 
of his confederates and still bore this testimony against 
him. Although the evidence was directed chiefly 
against Shaw as their chief, yet others are his accom- 
plices, and constant associates are doubtless equally 
guilty. Some of those who were discharged by the 
court acknowledged they have been on board the ship, 
but it appears that for some time past they have con- 
ducted better, and have avoided the company of Shaw 
altogether. One of the principal villains, brother to 
Shaw, is now with the enemy, and two others keep out 
of the way, that they cannot be taken. 
' This is the return made by Major Ewing, and I should 
be glad to be favored by your excellency with directions 
in what manner these cases shall be tried ; and whether 
if they are willing to enter on board the continental fleet, 
they may not be permitted to do so, previous to trial. 

Agreeably to your orders I am now at this place with 
nea 300 of the militia of my brigade, which number 
was furnished by the following regiments, and in the 



1777.] EXECUTIVE FROM 1776 TO 1786. 91 

following proportions, viz. ; Col. Hand's 60, Potter's 24, 
Holmes' 110, Dick's 20, Ellis' 55; the other regiments 
furnished none, nor have any appeared from Burlington 
as jour orders intimated. I would submit it to your 
excellency whether, as the movements of the enemy 
are so precarious, the orders given me might not be 
more discretionary, as I am always on the spot, and the 
distance so great that the service might suffer before 
proper orders could be procured from your excellency 
on every occasion. 

I am your excellency's most ob't and hum. ser't, 

SILAS NEWCOMB, B. G. 
His Excellency, Gov. Livingston. 



From Silvanus 8eely to Governor Livingston. 

Elizabethtown, August 21st, 1777. 

Sir, — I received information yesterday that there had 
gone over a canoe and three men the day before to 
Staten Island. I immediately sent off a small party to 
watch them ; they accordingly did so, and in the eve- 
ning took the canoe and one of the men, Benjamin 
Hatfield. I send him to you by Peter Williams and 
John Bonnel, Jr., two of the men that apprehended 
him. He denies that any men went ovei with him, 
but says that Jacob Hatfield and James Hatfield went 
down with him to get his boat off I am inclined to 
think this is true. I make no doubt both these fellows 
went down and helped him away, and then returned, 
as I know they were in town at the time the canoe 



92 CORRESPONDENCE OF THE NEW JERSEY [1777. 

was seized. Our men found with him 1^ gallons of 
rum, 1 lb. tea, sugar and salt, and sundry small writings 
which I have enclosed. Please inform me what I shall 
do with the goods taken with him. 

Your ob't and humb. serv., 

SILVANUS SEELY. 
His Excellency, Gov. Livingston. 

Captain Craig to Colonel Frelinghuysen. 

August, 1777. 
Dear Col. — Agreeably to your order of last evening 
I marched what men I could muster to Trumblys' Point, 
and posted them in such manner as I thought best, to 
receive the enemy if they came over. No movement 
was perceived in that quarter, but was informed that 
they landed at Woodbridge Neck, about 80 men, and 
took off ten of the inhabitants as prisoners, and above 
one hundred head of cattle, and no person to oppose 
them. It is with the greatest difficulty that I am able 
to keep my company together, as they have been 
expecting to receive assistance, and if not very soon 
rendered, I shall scarcely be able to keep this post. 
The enemy were over near Woodbridge Neck night 
before last, and seized three of the inhabitants within 
one mile where we lay. I must likewise beg the favor 
of being supplied with cartridges, as we have not more 
than one round apiece. 

Your most ob't ser't, 

JOHN CRAIG. 
Col. P'relinghuysen, at Elizabeth Town. 



1777.] EXECUTIVE FROM 1776 TO 1786. 93 

Fi'om Ehenezer Hazard to Governor Livingston. 

Philadelphia, August 23d, 1777. 

Sir, — Some time last fall a certain Andries Buskirk 
was employed as a post rider between Hackensack (at 
which place he lived) and my office in the state of New 
York. He rode but three or four trips before the mail 
fell into the hands of the enemy at Hackensack. Gen- 
eral Washington's letter to Congress upon that occasion 
intimated that this was not an accident, but the effect 
of design in the rider ; which I am inclined to think 
was the case, as his Excellency, Gen. Washington, 
asserts notliing as a fact but upon good authority. I 
have been informed the rider was apprised of his dan- 
ger, and took no care to avoid it. As I am told Buskirk 
is now in confinement in Newark, I beg your Excel- 
lency will be pleased to direct an inquiry to be made 
respecting this matter, that if Buskirk has been treach- 
erous, he may be punished. His son rode at the time 
the mail was taken, but as Buskirk, himself, was the 
person we agreed with as a rider, he is answerable for 
the conduct of those he employed under him. It is not 
unlikely his son is at Hackensack, and may be easily 
taken, I think his name is Andries. It is said that Dr. 
McLean of New York, kept the rider in chat till the 
enemy came up. I beg to be favored with a line in 
answer to this, and am 

Your Excellency's most obedient and very h'e ser't, 

EBEN. HAZARD. 

His Excellency, Governor Livingston. 



94 CORRESPONDENCE OF THE NEW JERSEY [1777 

From Colonel Fi'elinghuysen to Governor Livingston. 

Raritan, August 25th, 1777. 

Dear Sir, — I expected yesterday to find your Excel- 
lency at Morristown, and am extremely sorry that your 
Excellency left the place before I arrived. I have so 
much to communicate and so much to complain of, that 
I am extremely anxious to see you, but conceive it my 
duty to repair again to my station before night, which 
I could not reach should I first go to Princeton. I am 
besides so much fatigued by losing my rest for tw^o 
nights past that I must necessarily choose the shortest 
road. 

Col. Middah waits upon you, and will represent to 
your excellency several things, concerning which I have 
not time to write. In particular the Colonel will ac- 
quaint you with the circumstances of the affair, on 
Staten Island, for I suppose my letter on that subject 
having been sent to Morris is not received. The prin- 
cipal matter on which I am so desirous of conversing 
with your excellency, is the unhappy situation of our 
state. The continental troops are to march towards 
Philadelphia. The militia who have turned out are a 
trifling number ; the enemy are encouraged and irri- 
tated. The consequences, I fear, will be fatal to that 
county ; nay, I have reason to believe, the enemy will 
not lay idle after the removal of the continental troops. 
Is it not in your excellency's power to prevail upon 
General Sulhvan to leave one of the Jersey regiments ? 
If so, it is the only means, I believe, which can be 



1777.] EXECUTIVE FROM 1776 TO 1786. 95 

used for the salvation of that county. I must certainly 
fall a prey to the enemy with my little party, if the 
enemy choose to come down, and we attempt to drive 
them back. I fear much the loss of character, but I am 
most concerned for the poor inhabitants, and their pro- 
perty. I am however determined to exert my utmost 
abilities for the defence of this state ; and I trust I shall 
not be blamed for any of my future conduct by those 
who are unacquainted with my situation. I must inform 
your excellency, that I have four prisoners who were 
taken up as spies, having been with the enemy all 
winter, and are now making their appearance among 
us. I shall send them on with the two before appre- 
hended. Your excellency's directions respecting such 
measures as Colonel Middah will mention, I hope will 
be immediately forwarded, especially with reference to 
the procuring of ammunition. I must not forget to 
congratulate your excellency on the great loyalty of 
Hunterdon county. On Saturday arrived at Elizabeth- 
town Lieut. Col. Houton, with one private, a baggage 
wagon and two horses. The Colonel says it is occa- 
sioned by a report having been industriously spread 
among the inhabitants, that General Dickinson advised 
them by no means to go, there being no need of any 
mihtia ; that their being called upon was solely owing 
to a whimsical notion of General Hinds. Something, 
doubtless, must be immediately done upon my arrival 
atElizabetlitown. I shall order Col. Houton to return, 
and wait upon your excellency. I dare say the account 
of General Sullivan's conduct in the affair of Staten 



96 CORRESPONDENCE OF THE NEW JERSEY [1777. 

Island will cause some uneasy sensations, I wish I 
may be wrong in my opinion, but I seriously believe 
that upon inquiry, nothing but the most unpardonable 
neglect will be found the cause of our loss. I send by 
Col. M. three letters, which I received last night. 

I am your excellency's most obedient and most 
humble servant, 

FRED^ FRELINGHUYSEN. 
His Excellency, Gov. Livingston. 



From Edward Taylor to Governor Livingston and the 

Legislature. 

Middletown, August 25, 1777. 
Gentlemen, — As the ear of the Legislature of New 
Jersey is always open to hear the complaints of the 
people and to redress grievances, I therefore take this 
opportunity to make my complaint to your honorable 
body. I may be remembered by some of you who 
attended the Governor at Bordentown as a Council of 
Safety, when I was ordered to attend by the command- 
ing officer of this county. I accordingly attended, and 
was bound over to attend the next court of Oyer and 
Terminer that should be held in this county, which I 
thought was for small charges, though was better 
satisfied, thinking as I was a prisoner to the Governor, 
under bail, I should be free from insult from the military 
authority without just cause, but to my great surprise I 
found my mistake. I was sent for to appear before the 
commanding officer, Gen. Forman, and made a prisoner, 



1777.] EXECUTIVE FROM 1776 TO 1786. 97 

as you may see by the enclosed letter. The charges 
made against me are enthely unjust. 1 am as innocent 
of them as the child unborn. Though innocent, I 
strictly obey the order of confinement, which is a con- 
siderable damage to me in my business, having a grist 
mill at the distance of two or three miles from where I 
hve, and nobody but servants of my own house to 
attend there, whom I cannot trust without my being 
present to oversee them, which occasions my mill to 
stand idle the chief part of the time, which is a 
great damage to my neighbors as well as myself My 
farming business is also neglected, part being at a dis- 
tance from where I reside. I therefore hope my 
complaint will come under your speedy consideration, 
and that I may be ordered to appear before your hon- 
orable house, and my accusers also, that I may know 
who they are or w hat they will say against me. If my 
request should be granted, I should take it as a favor 
from his Excellency, the Governor, to send an order 
for me to appear, which may be a protection for my 
person in my journey, and also an order of protection 
for my family and property during my absence, which 
favors will be gratefully acknowledged. 
Your most ob't and hum'e serv't, 

EDWARD TAYLOR. 
His Excellency, Gov. Livingston, Commander-in- 
Chief, and the Hon. Council and Gen. Assembly. 



98 CORRESPONDENCE OF THE NEW JERSEY^ [1777. 

List of Prisoners ordered to Princeton. 

Elizabethtown, August 27th, 1777. 

Taken and detained for having gone into the enemy's 
lines and returning to this state : 

James Worth, apprehended by order of Col. Fre- 
Hnghuysen. 

Benjamin Worth, taken just after the action on 
Staten Island, he having left the Island when the 
action began. 

Jonathan Clauson, Cornelius Clauson, apprehended 
by Major Dunn for having joined the enemy w^hen in 
Jersey. 

James Wells, Richard Churchward, left the Island 
and came to Jersey, apprehended by Capt. Webster. 

James Compton, apprehended by Major Davison. 

James Hetfield and Jacob Hetfield, apprehended by 
order of his Excellency, Governor Livingston. 

To Lieutenant Allen — 

You are required to march forthwith with 6 men and 
take the above prisoners to Princeton and deliver them 
to his Excellency's order. 

FREDK. FRELINGHUYSEN, Col. 



From the President of the Continental Congress to 
Governor Livingston. 

Philadelphia, September 5th, 1777. 
giR^ — In the present exigency of public affairs, the 
Congress have come to the enclosed resolve, which I 



1777.] EXECUTIVE FROM 1776 TO 1786. 99 

have the honor to transmit, and which I am to request 
you will comply with as soon as possible. 

The militia of the state of New Jersey by their late 
conduct against our cruel enemies, have distinguished 
themselves in a manner that does them the greatest 
honor; and I am persuaded they will continue to merit 
on all occasions, when called upon, the reputation they 
have so justly acquired. Those which the Congress 
now request you will order out, it is their desire you 
will order to rendezvous at Bristol. 

It will be highly agreeable to Congress to give the 
command to Gen. Dickinson, should the appointment 
fall in with your judgment, and I have reason to believe 
he will cheerfully accept of it, if you should think 
proper to put them under his direction. 

I have the honor to be, with the greatest respect, sir, 
your most obed't and very h'ble serv't, 

JOHN HANCOCK, Prqsid't. 
His Excellency, Governor Livingston. 



Fro7n the President of the Continental Congress to 
Governor Livingston. 

Philadelphia, September 12th, 1777. 

Sir, — It is the earnest desire of Congress, and I 
have it in charge to inform you of it, that you will 
immediately order out four thousand of the Jersey 
militia to reinforce the army under General Washing- 
ton with all possible expedition. 

If you should not be able to call out that number, it 



100 CORRESPONDENCE OF THE NEW JERSEY [1777 

is the request of Congress that you will call out 
as many as possible in this critical state of our 
affairs, 

I have the honor to be, with great respect, sir, your 
most obed. serv't, 

JOHN HANCOCK, Presid't. 
His Excellency, Governor Livingston. 



Governor Livingston to Brigadier General Newcomb. 

Haddonfield, September 20th, 1777. 

Sir, — As from the real bravery of our militia, and 
the terror with which they have already frequently 
struck the enemy, they will doubtless be of essential 
service in opposing the progress of the enemy towards 
Philadelphia, I think it best those now collected at 
Woodbury should immediately march to join the militia 
under the immediate command of General Armstrong, 
and to reinforce the army under the command of his 
Excellency, General Washington. This detachment, 
I am persuaded from your zeal for the cause, you would 
upon this important occasion be desirous of connnand- 
ing in person. But as in all probability the enemy's 
fleet, should their land army meet with success, will 
attempt to ravage our coasts, and they may perhaps 
throw over some troops besides, I think your presence 
will be more necessary in this state. You will therefore 
direct Capt. Potter to take the command of the troops 



1777.] EXECUTIVE FROM 1776 TO 1786. 101 

now at Woodbury, and to march them with all possible 
expedition as above directed. 
I am your hum'e serv't 

WILL. LIVINGSTON. 
Brigadier Gen'l Newcomb. 



From Governor Livingston to the President of the 
Continental Congress. 

Princeton, October 4, 1777. 

Sir, — The council a few days ago was informed, but 
not officially so, that Mr. Penn, late Governor, and Mr. 
Chew, late Chief Justice of Pennsylvania, with some 
others, had been removed to the Union, in the county 
of Hunterdon, by order of the Hon. Board of War. 
We are extremely sorry that persons of their political 
caste and rank in life should have been sent into this 
state, which is nearly encircled by the enemy, to say 
nothing of our domestic foes. Wherever the enemy 
go they never fail to make friends and abettors, or at 
least to call up such into active life in their favor as 
during their absence remained in a sort of inactivity. 
We have suffered extremely from persons under parole. 
A course of experience has fully convinced us, that 
they have always tinctured the neighborhood in which 
they have been fixed with toryism and disaffection. 
There is hardly a county in this state which is not at 
present exposed to the incursions of the enemy ; and 
therefore we submit it, whether it be proper to send 
any suspected persons into it. They have an iinper- 



102 CORRESPONDENCE OF THE NEW JERSEY [1777. 

ceptible and baleful influence even upon the well affect- 
ed. We request, therefore, that the above gentlemen 
may be removed into some other staie as soon as pos- 
sible. Of all Jersey, the spot in which they are at 
present is the very spot in which they ought not to be. 
It has always been considerably disaffected, and still 
continues so, notwithstanding all our efforts, owing, we 
imagine, in part to the interests, connection, and influ- 
ence of Mr. John Allen, brother-in-law of Mr. Penn, 
who is now with the enemy. Of this the Board of War 
must have been entirely ignorant, otherwise they would 
not have made such an order of removal. And we are 
willing to ascribe it to the hurry and multiplicity of 
of their business, that either the honorable the Congress, 
or the Board of War, should have selected any part of 
New Jersey as a prison for mal-contents, without first 
notifying the same to the executive power of the state. 
Nor can we persuade ourselves that they will have any 
objection against our removing the before-mentioned 
prisoners out of this state, to such other parts of the 
country as Congress may think most fit for their safety, 
or, if they must remain in this state, to leave it to our 
direction in what particular locality, they are likely to 
do the least mischief 

I am your ob't and hum. ser't, 

WILL: LIVINGSTON. 
His Excellency, 

John Hancock, Pres't of Congress. 



1777.1 EXECUTIVE FROM 1776 TO 1786. 103 

Froin Colonel MaxiveU to Governor Livingston, 

October 4, 1777. 

giR^_As Col. Dayton is going to your excellency 
on the business I designed to write upon, and his excel- 
lency, General Washington, having wrote to you fully 
on that head, my designs are nearly anticipated. How- 
ever, I will offer something, viz : If our state does not 
keep a watchful eye over their troops in the clothing 
way, I am certain they will in a great measure be neg- 
lected. 

From this and all to the southward, every state has 
imported something, and by their industry had got 
their troops tolerably well clothed in the spring ; and, 
with what the clothier-general assisted them to in 
common afterwards, they will make a tolerable appear- 
ance. I need say little to you of the northern troops ; 
you must well know their advantages in getting cloth- 
ing, and they made use of them. We have gone very 
early into the field, and have had no other dependence 
but on the clothier-general, and we got them in bits 
and scraps, as the miser gives his son some part of his 
patrimony before death. It was dealt out with so 
scanty a hand, we never knew the good of it; besides 
we never got our proper quantity, and some of what we 
did get was rotten. If our state would provide a 
complete suit at first, then the other supply might be 
sufficient. We are in great need at present of shoes, 
stockings, breeches, shirts, good jackets, and some caps, 
for the want of which many valuable men are rendered 
useless. 



104 CORRESPONDENCE OF THE NEW JERSEY [1777. 

His excellency says that if you would now fill up 
the regiments he would ask no more militia. That 
pernicious practice of substitutes, either in the standing 

army or militia, must be put a stop to to 

recruiting, and nothing will prevent it while the militia is 
required. I submit these few observations, to your 
excellency and both houses, and hope that a temporary 
supply may be sent as soon as possible ; and am 

Your Excellency's most obedient and humble ser- 
vant, 

WM. MAXWELL. 

His excellency, the Governor of New Jersey. 



From General Washington to General Forman. 

Head-Quarters, Philadelphia County, Oct. 6, 1777. 
Sir, — You having informed me that the times of 
many of your present brigade of militia are near expi- 
ring, and that many others who came out for no certain 
time, are anxious to return home, you have my permis- 
sion to march them towards Delaware, under pretence 
that you are going to guard the stores at Trenton, and 
when they have crossed the river you may discharge 
them. But I must beg that you will immediately use 
your utmost endeavors to collect a number equal to what 
you were to have brought in your last brigade, and 
return with them as soon as possible to join the army 
under my command. I shall be glad if you will let me 



^ 



1777.] EXECUTIVE FROM 1776 TO 1786. 105 

know, upon your arrival in Jersey, when I may expect 
you again, and with what force. 

I am, sir, your most ob't serv't 

G« WASHINGTON. 
General Forman. 



From Elisha Boudinot to Governor Livingston. 

Newark, Oct. 9th, 1777. 

Sir, — I received your favor yesterday relative to the 
appointment with which your Excellency and the Com- 
mittee of Safety have honored me. The inadequate 
salary would not have been the obstacle against my 
accepting the office, as, during the present distress of 
my country, I would freely devote my time to its ser- 
vice, and I should have immediately set out for Bor- 
dentown, on the reception of your letter, had I not 
previous to this received an office in the mihtary depart- 
ment. I am in hopes, however, to get liberty to act as 
secretary for the short time you will sit, which I suppose 
will be no longer than the meeting of the Legislature. 
I shall be able to determine this on Monday, which if it 
is according to my wishes, I will set out on Tuesday. 
If it should be otherwise, must beg your Excellency 
and the Committee of Safety to accept of my thanks 
for the polite offer, and to be assured that it is with the 
greatest reluctance, if I am obliged to decline the ap- 
pointment. 

I have the honor to be your Excellency's most ob't 
and humb'e serv't., 

ELISHA BOUDINOT. 
His Excellency, Gov'r Livingston. 



a > 



106 CORRESPONDENCE OF THE NEW JERSEY [1777. 

From the President of the Continental Congress to the 
Assembly of Neiv Jersey. 

York Town, Pennsylvania, October 17th, 1777. 

Gentlemen,— I have the honor to transmit a copy 
of the return to Congress from Gen. Washington of 
those articles of clothing that are absolutely necessary 
for the army under his immediate command, accompa- 
nied with an extract of the General's letter on the 
subject. From these letters you will perceive that the 
troops are in the greatest distress and Hkely to suffer 
still more from the inclemency of the approaching 
season, unless they are reheved in time. I am therefore 
in obedience to the inclosed order of Congress earnestly 
to request you will forward to head quarters, with all 
possible dispatch, all such articles mentioned in the 
return as you are able to collect, which are not imme- 
diately wanted for the regiments that have not yet 
joined the army. You will also be pleased to issue 
orders to the officers of the clothier's department who 
reside in your state, to exert themselves to forward the 
clothing agreeably to the inclosed requisition of Con- 
gress. I mui^t also entreat your attention to the other 
resolves herewith transmitted. 

I have the honor to be, gentlemen, your most obedi- 
ent and very humble servant, 

JOHN HANCOCK, Presid't. 
Hon'ble Assembly of the State of New Jersey. 



1777.] EXECUTIVE FROM 1776 TO 1786. 107 

From Williain Paterson to Governor Livingston. 

Monistowii, October 18th, 1777. 

Dear Sir, — In the 13th section of the act constitu- 
ting a Council of Safety, the President and Council 
are authorized at discretion to direct the trial of certain 
offenders in other counties than those in which the 
crimes were committed. The insurgents who were 
taken on their way to the enemy are now at this place, 
but the court cannot with propriety proceed to try them 
unless they be expressly directed for the purpose. I 
wish your Excellency would be pleased to write to the 
Chief Justice and enclose an order directing the court 
to try the said insurgents in this county. Lest your 
Excellency should not have their names, I send herewith 
a list. The Easton offenders I suppose will soon come 
on, and hope that you will send a similar order for them. 

Jacob Bogart, John Sears, Joseph Pearce, Stout 
Havens, Wm. Newman, and Richard JNIorrison were, 
upon cmifession, committed for high treason by the 
Council of Safety. If there be any witnesses, I should 
be early informed of them. Mere confession, although 
sufficient to commit upon in high treason, is not suffi- 
cient to convict. Cornelius Clawson, James Worth, 
Benjamin Worth, and Jonathan Clawson were likewise 
committed by the Council of Safety, upon confession 
solely. The commitments against the last four include 
two charges : first, high treason ; second, felony for 
going into the enemy's lines. Confession, perhaps, will 
operate in felony ; and therefore it will be necessary 



108 CORRESPONDENCE OF THE NEW JERSEY [1777. 

for some of the Council of Safety who were present at 
the confession to attend the court. By turning to the 
minutes you will be able to see what members were 
present. Mr. Parker informed me yesterday that he 
had not yet sent his letter to Mr. Skinner, and told me 
he imagined (and perhaps justly enough) that the com- 
manding officer at EHzabethtown would not let it pass 
without an order from your Excellency. If proper, 
your Excellency can send the order to me, and I will 
forward it with the letter to General Dickinson. 

The well affected at Newark are very uneasy about 
a certain Capt. Kennedy, who was laid under parole 
by the late Convention. The uneasiness increases, 
owing to the enemy's having a few days ago driven 70 
or 80 head of fat cattle from his farm. He is on half 
pay in the British service. Would it not be proper to 
release the Capt. from his parole, and then call upon 
him to take a decisive part 1 I once moved something 
of this kind in Council, but it went off, as business of 
a more pressing nature happened to come in before it 
could be decided upon. I am convinced that the 
Council did a very imprudent action at Princeton in 
advising your Excellency to detach the men which 
should compose General Forman's brigade, for the 
Pennsylvania service, from particular regiments ; it has 
broke in upon and marred extremely Gen. Dickinson's 
arrangements and plan. I submit it to your Excellency 
whether in future it will not be most advisable, when a 
requisition is made for men, for your Excellency to 
determine the number, and Gen. Dickinson to deter- 



1777.] EXECUTIVE FROM 1776 TO 1786. 109 

mine from what regiments and brigades that number 
shall be detached. If the orders were through Gen. 
Dickinson, so far as respects the mode, it will prevent 
confusion. 

Glorious news ! glorious news ! General Burgojne 
has surrendered himself and his whole army prisoners 
of war to Gen. Gates. I believe this intelligence may 
be depended upon, it comes quite direct. The bearer 
will inform your Excellency more particularly. 

Enclosed are two letters for your Excellency, and a 
newspaper. One of the letters is from General Winds 
and being informed that it was on business of impor- 
tance, I have dispatched the messenger sooner than I 
should have done. I beheve our militia will not be 
wanted up the North River, if so, would it not be best 
to recall them ? At all events, it would not be improper 
to order Gen. Winds (unless he be already ordered by 
Gen. Dickinson) to return the instant the enemy sail 
down the river. 

I am, with respect, your most ob't and hu. serv't, 

WM. PATERSON. 
His Excellency, Gov. Livingston. 



Fro7n Jonathan Elmer to Governor Livingston. 

York Town, November 20th, 1777. 
Sir, — As my term of delegation expires in a few 
days and business of importance requires my attend- 
ance elsewhere, I propose leaving Congress to morrow. 
The state of New Jersey will then be unrepresented. 



110 CORRESPONDENCE OF THE NEW JERSEY [1777. 

I thought it my duty to acquamt you with it, and to 
request the Assembly immediately to send forward one 
or more delegates from the state. 

I have made it my business ever since I have had the 
honor of a seat in Congress, to attend as constantly as 
possible. Whether I have discharged the important 
trust reposed in me by my constituents to their 
satisfaction or not I must leave to them to judge. I 
can however with truth declare that I have at all times 
exerted myself to the utmost of my slender abilities for 
the good of m} country and in particular for the state 
which I have had the honor of representing. 

Congress hath at length completed the confederation. 
It is now printing, and will be sent forward in a few 
days for the consideration and approbation of our Leg- 
islature. 

The distance of the public treasury of our state from 
my place of abode when at home, and my not having 
had an opportunity of waiting upon the Assembly when 
sitting, have prevented my receiving any money for 
public services through the Treasurer's hands. I 
received 300 dollars of Mr. Clark in July last, for 
which I gave him a receipt, and for which he engaged 
to account to the Assembly, Since that, I have drawn 
on the continental treasurer for 700 dollars, to be 
charged to the state of New Jersey, and for which I 
expect to account to the state. 

The expense of attending Congress upon the most 
economical plan I have been able to draw, amounts to 
considerably more than 20 shiUings a day. I rely on 



1777.] EXECUTIVE FROM 1776 TO 1786. Ill 

the generosity of the assembly to make me such an 
additional allowance as they shall deem adequate. 
Observing to you, sir, that my expenses for the 7 weeks 
I have attended Congress in this place, for supporting 
myself and one horse, amounts to £65. The Delegates 
from every other state have from 5 to 8 dollars a day, 
and in general complain they cannot subsist on the pay 
allowed them by their respective states. 

I have the honor to be, sir, your most obedient and 
very humble servant, 

JONATHAN ELMER. 
Hon'ble Speaker of Assembly, N. Jersey. 



Pro??i the President of the Continental Congress to the 
Governor of Neiv Jersey. 

Yorktown, December 23d, 1777. 

Sir, — I am directed by Congress to transmit to your 
honorable body the enclosed resolutions, which the 
pressing wants of the army, and the arts and avarice of 
engrossers and extortioners have rendered indispensably 
necessary to the general welfare. 

It is with deep concern that Congress, after having 
for some time contemplated in painful silence the mis- 
chiefs which threaten this extended continent from the 
growing avarice of the times, feel themselves constrained 
to recommend measures, which the virtue of all classes 
of men rendered not long since unnecessary, and 
which a scrupulous regard for the security of property 



112 CORRESPONDENCE OF THE NEW JERSEY [1777. 

to every citizen of these states has hitherto restrained 
them from adopting ; but, (unhappy the case of Ameri- 
ca) laws unworthy the ciiaracter of infant repubUcs, are 
become necessary to supply the defect of pubUc virtue, 
and to correct the views of some of her sons ; and she 
is called upon by the grand principle of self-preservation 
to guard against the parricide of those whom she has 
fostered in her own bosom. 

To minds, whose reflections are employed on the 
importance of the cause in which we are engaged, and 
which feel for every circumstance which may affect the 
honor and safety of these states, it must give the most 
painful sensations to consider, that at a time when the 
late signal successes we have been blest with, the re- 
duced numbers of the enemy, the difficulties they meet 
with in procuring foreign levies, and the political com- 
plexion of affairs in Europe, have deprived them of 
many of those resources on which she has so much 
depended ; when the numbers and improving discipline 
of the army, the prodigious augmentation of our mihta- 
ry stores, the quantity of provisions with which this 
country abounds, and the large supplies of clothing 
which have of late been imported by private persons, 
afford not only the opportunity but the means under 
divine Providence of establishing our liberties by a few 
exertions, — this bright prospect should be clouded over, 
and this great and glorious event endangered by the 
languor of too many, and by the arts and avarice of 
designing individuals, who hke the British nabobs of the 
East, are corrupting the manners of a whole nation, 



1778.] EXECUTIVE FROM 1776 TO 1786. 113 

and building vast fortunes on the destruction of the 
liberties of the Western World. 

It is to be hoped, however, that the wise and spirited 
laws of the different states, aided by the influence and 
exertions of the real patriots, will apply effectual reme- 
dies to these evils ; that the old and hardened offenders 
win be punished ; that those in whose bosoms the sparks 
of public virtue are not yet extinguished, will be re- 
claimed ; the languid roused from their present apathy, 
and that all classes of men will unite with their former 
spirit and virtue against an enemy whose progress is 
marked with every vestige of barbarity, and whose de- 
termined object is to estabhsh a tyranny of the most 
dangerous and debasing nature over the inhabitants 
of a vast continent. Congress flatter themselves that 
the resolutions herewith transmitted, will lead to accom- 
phsli some of these valuable purposes ; and they there- 
fore esteem it their duty to recommend them to the 
serious consideration of your honorable House, and 
hope they will be carried into execution as expeditiously 
as possible. 

By order of Congress, 

JOHN HANCOCK, Pres't. 



From the Board of War to the Governor. 

War Office, May 25th, 1778. 
The Board not having thought proper to agree with 
Col. John Patton for the carrying on the Andover Iron 
Works, have instructed Col. Flower to apply to the 



114 CORRESPONDENCE OF THE NEW JERSEY [1778. 

government of your state and procure the possession of 
the Works for Col. Thomas Majbury, with whom the 
terms of the contract are settled, on condition of his 
getting the possession agreeably to the resolution of 
Congress. As we find it absolutely necessary to put 
these works in blast, the Board beg the favor of your 
Excellency to assist Col. Flower or Col. Maybury in 
the business ; they will necessarily have to have such, 
relative to these works with the government of your 
state. 

I have the honor to be, with great esteem, your very 
obed't serv't, 

By order of the Board, 

RICHARD PETERS. 

His Excellency, Gov. Livingston. 



From Colonel Flower to Governor Livingston. 

Lebanon, May 28, 1778. 
Sir, — Your Excellency will see by the honorable 
Board of War and Ordnance, that they have not 
thought proper to agree with Col. Patton for the carry- 
ing on the Andover Iron Works, and have directed me 
to apply to the government of your state and procure 
the possession of the Works, to wit : the furnace and 
forges for Col. Thomas Maybury, with whom I have 
made a contract, for the iron to be made at the said 
Works, to be converted into steel, agreeably to the 
resolution of the Honorable Congress of the 15th Jan- 
uary last; — since Col. Patton could not get possession of 



1778.] EXECUTIVE FROM 1776 TO 1786. 115 

these works, with the consent of the owners, two of 
them being with the enemy in Pliiladelphia ; and Mr. 
Chew whom Mr. Whitehead Humphreys and myself 
waited on, who is another owner, refused to have any- 
thing to do with it, as he was only a part owner, but 
advised me to send in a flag to Philadelphia, in order to 
treat with Messrs. Allen and Turner on the terms of the 
lease, agreeably to the resolution of the Honorable 
House of Assembly of your state on the 13th March 
last; which advice of Mr. Chew I considered as an 
insult, as he knew such a step was impracticable. 

I, therefore, in behalf of the United States of North 
America, beg leave to sohcit your Excellency's assist- 
ance in these premises, in order to have Col. May bury 
put in possession of the Andover Works as soon as possi- 
ble ; as your Honors were pleased to assure us, that if 
the present owners of the works refused to let them for 
the use of the public, the Legislature would then take 
the necessary steps for putting them in possession of a 
proper person in order to have them carried on for the 
purpose before-mentioned. 

I hope the Legislature will approve of Col. Maybury, 
and give him such assistance as will enable him to per- 
form his contract, and that your Excellency will use 
your influence to accomplish this very essential and 
important business. 

I have the honor to be your Excellency's most obe- 
dient obhged, very humble servant, 

BENJ. FLOWER, Col'l Adj. C. G. M. 
His Excellency, Gov. Livingston. 



116 CORRESPONDENCE OF THE NEW JERSEY [1778. 

From the President of the Continental Congress to 
Governor Livingston. 

York-Town, June 17, 1778. 

Sir, — Authentic intelligence received by Congress 
from many quarters, leave it no longer doubtful in what 
manner the enemy mean to conduct their plan of con- 
ciliation. 

Under delusive appearances of pacific acts and peace- 
making commissioners, already their military reinforce- 
ments begin to arrive, and already they have com- 
menced the campaign in many places with acts of 
cruelty and devastation. 

Indian irruptions, and burning houses in the moment 
of dispersing propositions for peace, evince the insidious 
designs of the enemy, and demonstrate the necessity of 
wisdom in council, of strength and vigor in the field. 
The former may be employed to distress the enemy 
greatly, by withholding from them the provisions of 
America, and the latter by quickly collecting poweriul 
armies to take advantage of their present weaknsss. 

In duty therefore to their constituents, Congress ear- 
nestly call upon you, sir, and your state, to adopt the 
most effectual and vigorous measures for speedily rein- 
forcing the continental army with your quota of troops. 
The present moment unimproved, may be productive of 
most pernicious consequences, and the pubhc safety 
demands strong and united efforts. 

Experience hath shewn that the marine force of our 
enemies enable them to secure for the support of their 



1778.] EXECUTIVE FROM 1776 TO 1786. 117 

armies, almost the whole of our exported provisions, and 
therefore. Congress, impressed with the necessity of 
preventing the supplies derived to our foes from this 
source and desirous of supplying the armies of the 
United States, have upon mature deliberation, laid an 
embargo upon provisions of all kinds, and they earnestly 
request the vigorous exercise of the powers of your 
state to carry into effective execution this most necessary 
measure. 

I am, with great respect, sir, your excellency's most 
obedient servant, 

JOHN HANCOCK, Pres't. 
His Excellency, Gov. Livingston. 



From General Winds to the Legislature. 

Head Quarters, Elizabethtown, June 16th, 1778. 

Gentlemen, — The anxiety I feel for want of ammu- 
nition to supply the militia, should any quantity be 
wanted on a sudden emergency, may be much easier 
conceived than described. Permit me to call your 
attention to my situation for a few hours. I flatter 
myself your time will not be misspent. Here I am on 
very extensive lines with a small body of men, who 
(although in the highest spirits) cannot be furnished 
with six rounds of ammunition, while the enemy are in 
great strength on Staten Island. And it is not im- 
probable, should the British army attempt a passage 
through New Jersey, from Philadelphia to New York, 
that our neighbors on the Island may make a diversion 



118 CORRESPONDENCE OF THE NEW JERSEY [1778. 

this way, but should not this be the case, hable as we 
are at all times to invasions, when the enemy are in 
strength, and while our frontiers produce any thing 
which to them is an object worth attempting, what 
consideration ought to induce us to remain unprepared 
to receive them ? 

I have the fullest confidence in the bravery of the 
New Jersey militia, and besides other weighty reasons 
for my repeated applications on this subject, the fear of 
sacrificing our reputation is not among the smallest. 
Permit me to add that with militia it is impossible to 
keep secret the state of our magazines, and it is not 
improbable that very soon, or perhaps even now, the 
enemy know our situation, and in case of an invasion, 
or the passage of the British army through this state, I 
am persuaded the militia will turn out cheerfully, and 
in large numbers. But I cannot flatter myself in the 
least with the prospect of their doing any thing material 
without ammunition, I rather think that numbers 
without so necessary an article will only be disadvan- 
tageous. Not in the least doubting, if I could but 
engage your attention to so serious an object you would 
grant me speedy reUef, and relying on your answer 
by[]the return of the bearer, I subscribe myself 

Most respectfully, your most obe't ser't, 

WILLIAM WINDS. 

P. S. Lead most wanted. 
The Hon. the Council and Gen'l Assembly of the 

State of New Jersey. 



1778.] EXECUTIVE FROM 1776 TO 1786. 119 

From Nathaniel Scudder to the Speaker of Assembly. 

Freehold, July 13th, 177,8. 

My Dear Sir, — I do myself the honor to address 
you upon an affair to me of the most serious and 
alarming importance. The honorable Council and 
Assembly of this state have not thought proper to invest 
their delegates with power to ratify and sign the con- 
federation, and it is obvious that unless every of the 
thirteen states shall accede to it we remain an uncon- 
federated people. These states have actually entered 
into a treaty with the court of Versailles as a confede- 
rated people, and Monsieur Girard, their Ambassador 
Plenipotentiary to Congress is now on our coast with a 
powerful fleet of ships, which have taken a pilot on 
board for Delaware. He probably may be landed by 
this time, and will at all events be in Philadelphia in a 
few days. How must he be astonished and confounded, 
and what may be the fatal consequences to America 
when he discovers (which he will immediately do,) that 
we are ipso facto unconfederated, and consequently 
what our enemies have called us, "a rope of sand." 

Will he not have just cause to resent the deception \ 
and may not insidious Britain, knowing the same, take 
advantage of your disunion ? for my own part I am of 
opinion she will never desist from her nefarious designs, 
nor ever consider her attempts upon our hberties 
fruitless and vain, until she knows the golden knot is 
actually tied. I left Congress last Wednesday eve- 
ning. The affair of confederation was to be taken up 



120 CORRESPONDENCE OF THE NEW JERSEY [1778' 

next daj.^Tlie magna charta of America was amply 
engrossed andj prepared for signing. Ten states had 
actually authorized their delegates to ratify : a delegate 
firom an |eleventh (viz. Georgia) declared he was so 
fully possessed of the sense of his constituents, that he 
should not hesitate to subscribe it. New Jersey and 
Maryland only stood it out. Mr. Chase, one of the 
delegates from that state, told me the day I left Phila- 
delphia, that he imagined the determination of Maryland 
would depend much upon that of New Jersey, and 
thought if our state should accede, theirs would also. 
He therefore concluded to go immediately down and try 
what could be done. I at the same time assured him 
I would write you on the subject on my return. 

I ought to inform you, sir, that the objections stated 
by New Jersey were read and considered in Congress, 
and after being entered at large on their minutes, a 
question was taken whether Congress at that time 
judged it expedient to take up the said objections so as 
to admit any emendations in the plan of confederation 
or not ? and it passed in the negative. In consequence 
of wliich they remain both upon the journal and files 
to be taken up and considered at any future time when 
they may be called for. I expect my colleagues will 
soon address you on this subject. I left Doct. Wither- 
spoon, Doct. Elmer and Mr. Boudinot at Philadelphia, 
whither I expect to return in a few days. I should 
have been much more uneasy when I was last at 
Princeton, and should have taken more pains to con- 
vince the members of the necessity of granting the 



1778.] EXECUTIVE FROM 1776 TO 1786. 121 

powers of ratification to their delegates, had I not been 
encouraged to expect that the Legislature would not 
rise without doing it ; at the same time supposing the 
reason why they withheld at that juncture to be, that 
their objections might have the greater weight with 
Congress. Indeed I all along expected Doct. Witlier- 
spoon would have brought on such powers with him, 
especially as I hoped the honorable houses would be 
clearly of opinion that it were better to confederate 
under all the disadvantages they apprehended, than that 
the general union should be broken or even greatly 
endangered. 

I know not whether I ought to say anything respect- 
ing the objections themselves : some of them are per- 
haps not very essential. The obtaining an admission 
of several of them would doubtless be of great local 
advantage to this state ; but every state must expect to 
be subjected to considerable local disadvantages in a 
general confederation. Indeed upon the whole I am 
fully of opinion that no plan can or will ever be adopted 
more equal or less generally injurious to the confederated 
states than the present. I also declare it as my opinion 
that, if the general business of emendation were to be 
fairly taken up in Congress to-morrow, several altera- 
tions would be made exceedingly disadvantageous to 
the smaller circumscribed states, and which perhaps 
might more than counterbalance the obtaining what we 
apply for. As to the grand and capital objection 
respecting the lands, &c., I will only observe that in 
case we never obtain an original quota of them, we 



122 CORRESPONDENCE OF THE NEW JERSEY [1778. 

shall only lose a share in the prime sale of them, which 
will probably be very low, while we shall inevitably 
reap a permanent and increasing benefit from the rapid 
and enormous growth of the larger states ; for surely 
in proportion to their extent and population, their quota 
of the public expense and debt will be increased, while 
ours will be proportionably diminished. What avails 
it therefore to us, whether five pounds of our national 
debt be paid by the accession of a subject to this state, 
or whether our quota be really lessened five pounds by 
the settlement of a person in the state of Virginia at 
the distance of a thousand miles from the Atlantic 1 for 
my own part, I think we shall have greatly the advan- 
tage of these enormous, unwieldly governments ; nor 
do I judge it unlikely they will soon find it neces- 
sary to sue for the curtailing their extravagant juris- 
diction. 

In the settlement of our soldiery, and the foreign 
deserters at the expiration of the war, we shall incur 
considerable disadvantage ; however, as the larger states 
will doubtless reioice to have their frontiers immediately 
enlarged, and will vie with each other in courting so 
great an accession of inhabitants, there will probably be 
no greater expense than barely that of locating the 
lands, our quota of which cannot be any very consider- 
able sum. 

I congratulate you on the signal success of our arms 
in this neighborhood on the 28th of June. Great 
plunder and devastation have been committed among 
my friends in this quarter, but through the distinguish- 



1778.] EXECUTIVE FROM 1776 TO 1786. 123 

ing goodness of Providence, my family and property 
escaped, and that almost in a miraculous manner. 

I wish you to take the above representation into your 
serious consideration, and if with me you shall judge it 
a matter of sufficient importance, that the Legislature 
may be as speedily as possible convened to deliberate 
and determine thereon. 

I am, dear Sir, with great esteem, yonr most obed't 
h'ble servant, 

NATH. SCUDDER. 
Hon'ble John Hart, Esq. 



Quarter-Master- General Pettit to General Washington. 

Camp White Plains, Sept. 10, 1778. 
Sir, — The scarcity of Forage, and the reluctance 
with which the farmers part with what they have to 
spare, has for some time past filled me with more alarm- 
ing apprehensions than I have felt on account of any 
other branch of the Quarter-Master's Department. The 
necessary consumption of forage, not only in and about 
the army, but from the numerous teams employed in 
this inland transportation of provisions and stores, has 
so far exhausted the resources of former crops, that 
every farmer in the middle states discerns that the 
demand for grain is equal if not more than equal to all 
that can possibly be furnished, and of course that the 
purchasers, whether for pubhc or private use, must of 
necessity pay whatever price shall be insisted on. The 
discretion of each individual is therefore the only boun- 



124 CORRESPONDENCE OF THE NEW JERSEY [1778. 

dary to the price demanded. Hence we find it impos- 
sible without the interposition of legislative authority, 
to adhere steadily to any fixed price, and at the same 
time obtain the necessary supplies. For, although 
many of the better disposed among the farmers would 
be willing to sell their forage at the present current 
prices, if they were not apprehensive their more ava- 
ricious neighbors would obtain a higher price for theirs i 
yet while they see prices constantly rising, and un- 
bounded, they are unwilling to preclude themselves from 
the advantages which experience has taught them may 
be obtained by withholding their commodities from the 
present market. This increases the avidity of the de- 
mand, and of course obliges the purchaser to submit to 
the terms imposed by the seller. 

The enormous increase of the public expenditures, 
though perhaps the greatest, is but one of the evils which 
must attend the permitting the prices of grain to continue 
rising without any other limitation than the capricious 
discretion of the sellers of it. The mischief is increased 
both in size and velocity by every step it advances, and 
must, if permitted to continue, produce the most disastrous 
consequences. On the other hand, if the legislatures of 
the respective states will give us their aid by fixing a table 
of prices between individuals and the public, and estab- 
lishing a legal mode as well for the obtaining at such 
prices what each individual can spare, as for ascertain- 
ing the quantity which may be taken in case of dispute, 
— I imagine the quantity of grain in the country will be 
found more adequate to the demand than present ap- 



1778.] EXECUTIVE FROM 1776 TO 1786. 125 

pearances indicate. From the scarcity, whether real 
or artificial, which we now feel, and have for some 
time past experienced in the states northward of the 
Chesapeake Bay, we have been under a necessity of 
drawing considerable quantities of grain from Virginia, 
Maryland and Delaware ; the transportation of which 
not only enhances the price, but by employing more 
teams in the pubUc service increases the consumption. 
If, therefore, the inhabitants of the state more contigu- 
ous to the army, could be induced to deliver in a short 
time what they can with propriety spare, it would not 
only enable us to form our magazines in due season, 
but might authorize us to relax our demand in the dis- 
tant places from whence supplies are transported at so 
great an expense. 

I take the liberty of troubling your Excellency with 
these acts and observations, together with a letter from 
Colonel Biddle, C. G. F., which is enclosed herewith, 
confident that a representation of the matter from 
your excellency to the legislatures of the respective 
states, either immediately or through Congress, will be 
the most likely way to have the business speedily at- 
tended to, and to procure it that dispatch which its 
importance demands. 

I have the honor to be, with the greatest respect, 
your excellency's most obedient and most humble 
servant, 

CHA.PETTIT, A. aM.G. 
His Excellency, Gen. Washington. 



126 CORRESPONDENCE OF THE NEW JERSEY [1778. 

Col. Biddle to General Pettit, enclosed in the foregoing. 

Cami? White Plains, Sept. 6, 1777. 

Dear Sir, — The consumption of forage is so great, 
and the distance it is brought subjects to so many delays 
and disappointments that I wish to fall on every method 
that will be most Hkely to answer a certain and regular 
supply. At this time we draw considerable quantities 
of corn and oats from Virginia and Maryland, by the 
way of the head of Elk, to Trenton, and thence by 
land to this camp. The same from the Delaware state ; 
— and these supphes must be continued as long as 
the season will permit, the middle states being much 
drained. However, I think much more might be drawn 
from Pennsylvania, Jersey, New York, and Connecticut, 
if the legislatures of those states would take effectual 
measures to bring out their hay and grain for the use of 
the army, and we shall have occasion for all that can 
possibly be spared from each of these states, to subsist 
our horses. At present. New Jersey cannot furnish a 
sufficiency to forage the great number of teams passing 
through there ; — although the gentleman in that state has 
as much interest and industry as any one in it, he 
complains of the great prices demanded ; — the same 
complaint from my agents in Pennsylvania, New York 
and Connecticut, and all agree that from various causes 
the forage is not brought to market. 

The absence of the militia in service in some places 
has been one cause of their not threshing, and in many, 
the expectation of a rising price induces them to keep 
it back. Some measures are necessary to bring them 



1778.] EXECUTIVE FROM 1776 TO 1786. 127 

to thresh and deUver all that can be spared for the use 
of the army. The limitmg a generous price, beyond 
which they would not have an expectation of a rise, 
would have a good effect ; and they should deliver it at 
the season in which it is most wanted, viz ; during the 
fall, winter, and spring. Therefore, I would propose, 
that his Excellency Gen. Washington, should be in- 
formed of this, and be requested to write to the different 
legislatures to take the most effectual measures to assist 
my agents in the different districts in the collection of 
forage by limiting the prices and enforcing a deUvery of 
the hay and grain that can be spared at stated periods, 
also in furnishing carriages, to haul the same in their 
respective states, to such places as it may be wanted in. 
If the prices should be limited from Pennsylvania to 
Connecticut inclusive, it may be necessary to make an 
apphcation to the legislatures of Delaware, Maryland 
and Virginia, on the same occasion, as the conveniency 
of water carriage from, and the great abundance of corn 
and oats in, those states, as well as the insufficiency of 
grain ^in others, will make it necessary to draw regularly 
from them. 

The proposition you made of a number of ox-teams, 
would be a great relief if they could be procured, as the 
oxen could be subsisted on grass, and a very little hay ; 
in the winter a small quantity of grain would be neces- 
sary. I submit this to you ; lay such part of it as you 
may think necessary to lay before the general. 

And am, dear Sir, your most obedient serv't, 

CLEMENT BIDDLE, C. G. R 



128 CORRESPONDENCE OF THE NEW JERSEY [1778. 

P. S. There is so little grain threshed in this and 
the adjoining states, and our present situation requiring 
immediate supphes, there is no time to be lost in adopt- 
ing some method to get the farmers to work. 
To Col. Charles Pettit, A. Q. M. Geni. 



From Governor Livingston to the Legislature. 

Princeton, September 29th, 1778. 
Gentlemen, — I herewith lay before your honorable 
House copies of two letters from Col. Biddle and 
Charles Pettit, Esqrs., upon the subject of forage, 
together with a letter from his Excellency, General 
Washington to me, accompanying these letters, and 
declaring his perfect conviction that the Legislature 
of this state will be forward to adopt every expedient 
that may seem calculated to afford the smallest relief in 
this interesting and essential point. The subject, gen- 
tlemen, is of such importance that I doubt not you will 
give it your serious attention, and manifest the same 
zeal in the common cause for which this state has 
hitherto rendered itself remarkably conspicuous. 

WIL. LIVINGSTON. 



Jonathan Ehner to the Legislature. 

Philadelphia, September 17th, 1778. . 
Gentlemen, — Sensible of the important trust reposed 
in me, and the honor conferred, in appointing me one 
of your delegates in Congress for two years past, I 



1778.] EXECUTIVE FROM 1776 TO 1786. 129 

esteem it my duty to embrace this opportunity of making 
my sincere acknowledgements. 

A v/illingness to comply with your requisition, and an 
earnest desire to serve my country, as far as my slender 
abihties would enable me, were the sole motives that 
induced me to accept of the appointment. How far I 
have answered your expectations in executing the trust, 
I willingly submit to your candor to determine. Permit 
me, however, to assure you that the public interest and 
the good of my country, particularly of the state which 
I have had the honor of representing, have constantly 
been the objects of my attention. I hope the integrity 
of my conduct, at least, will meet your approbation. 

As the circumstances of my family and private 
affairs, render it impracticable for me to attend Con- 
gress any longer, I take this opportunity of acquainting 
the hon'l Council and Assembly therewith, and of 

soliciting leave to resign. 

I have the honor to be gentlemen, your most ob't and 

hum. s't, JONATHAN ELMER, 

Hon'l Council and Assembly. 



From Colonel Hobne to Governor Livingston. 

Cumberland, November 2d, 1778. 
Dear Sir, — Inclosed I send you my commission as 
Col. of the second regiment of foot militia in the county 
of Salem, which I resign for the following reasons. 
First place, I have removed from Salem county to Cum- 
berland, and settled myself there, which makes it very 
9 



L30 CORRESPONDENCE OF THE NEW JERSEY [1778. 

inconvenient for me to attend the battalion. Secondly, 
I shall expect that the battalion will not be reconciled 
to have their commander an inhabitant of another 
county. Therefore would beg your Honor and the 
Joint Meeting to accept my resignaticfti, and your com- 
pliance will oblige 

Your humble serv't 

BENJ. HOLME. 
His Excellency, Governor Livingston, or the Governor 
for the time being of New Jersey. 



From a Committee of Congress to Governor Livingston. 

Philadelphia, November 11th, 1778. 
Sir, — The great and increasing difficulties in the 
Quarter Master and Commissary General's Depart- 
ments have induced Congress to adopt the resolution of 
which we have the honor to transmit you a copy. 
Among the measures immediately necessary for placing 
these matters on a proper foundation, is the acquiring a 
knowledge of the proper resources of these states. 
The articles of consumption which we would most 
particularly be informed of, are flour, wheat, rye, barley, 
oats, corn and rice, beef, pork, working oxen and horses, 
cider and vinegar. The ignorance and the interests of 
mankind oppose so strongly our wishes in this respect, 
that after every effort and every prudent precaution, our 
information will perhaps be of far less importance than 
could be wished. It is however our duty to aim at it, 
and we have no reason to doubt your Excellency's 
concurrence in the steps necessary to attain what we 
have in view\ Especially when it is considered how 



1778.] EXECUTIVE FROM 1776 TO 1786. 131 

readily your own good sense will dictate the impracti- 
cability of continuing the war, at least of continuing it 
to advantage, while we remain supremely ignorant of 
the supplies our country is capable of affording. We 
have to intreat that your Excellency, from your knowl- 
edge of the productions of the several parts of your 
state, would appoint some proper persons in whose 
industry and secrecy you can confide, to make proper 
lists through the districts you shall severally allot to 
them, of the quantity and number of such of the 
articles above named as are produced in it, which may 
probably be over and above the necessary consumption 
of the inhabitants, and also as nearly as possible the 
quantity, &c., which they consume over and above their 
own productions, or of what they do not produce. 
We hope that these lists may be transmitted to us with 
all convenient speed, to the end that proper arrange- 
ments may immediately be made for the ensuing 
campaign. Upon transmitting an account of the 
expenses which may accrue in this business, they 
shall immediately be paid. You will perceive, sir, that 
every precaution should be taken to prevent this object 
from transpiring, lest as on many former occasions the 

devoted adherents of should make a 

gain of the public distresses. 

We are, respectfully, your Excellency's ob't and 
h'ble servants, 

NATH. SCUDDER, 
GOUV. MORRIS, 
WM. WHIPPLE. 
Governor of New Jersey. 



132 CORRESPONDENCE OF THE NEW JERSEY [1778- 

From a Committee of Congress to Governor Livingston. 

Philadelphia, November 11th, 1778. 
Sir, — The dangerous practices of engrossers have 
increased so rapidly with the pubhc distresses, and have 
so accumulated them, that every friend to this country 
or even to humanity, cannot but wish to see some 
remedy to an evil which threatens the existence not 
only of the several states, but of the poorer part of the 
individuals which compose them. We are fully sensible 
that this disease should be touched with a cautious and 
with a delicate hand, but at the same time we confide 
in the wisdom of your Legislature for this delicacy and 
caution. We do not pretend to mark out the means 
which they should adopt, but the confidence reposed in 
us by Congress demands that we should at least hint 
what in our idea may conduce to this valuable purpose. 
The articles necessary for the consumption of the army 
are easily designated. And we trust there will not be 
much difficulty in distinguishing between the dealer in, 
or manufacturer, of those articles and the engrosser, or, 
as he would call himself, the speculator. These two 
objects being accomphshed, it surely cannot be deemed 
inconsistent either with policy or justice that he should 
be obliged to part with them to the pubhc. The pro- 
cess necessary fortius purpose must depend on the civil 
institutions which may have been respectively adopted, 
but it should be as short and as simple as is consistent 
with the constitution of the state. One thing more is 
necessary to complete the system, namely the price, if 



1778.] EXECUTIVE FROM 1776 TO 1786. 133 

this is such as to leave the speculator his profit, nothing 
more is operated by the law than merely to sanctify his 
unrighteous gains. If the price be fixed by law^, the 
efforts now making to render our money valuable, (and 
which we doubt not your Legislature will assist by 
heavy taxes,) will only tend to realize what he hath 
already accumulated. Perhaps a power lodged some- 
where to fix the market price monthly, by the name of 
assize, and a deduction from it of about twenty per 
cent, on commodities in the hands of engrossers, would 
be most effectual. This, however, and every thing else 
we have mentioned, is submitted to your wiser con- 
sideration. 

We have the honor to be your Excellency's most ob't 
and h'ble servants. 



NATH. SCUDDER, 
GOUV. MORRIS, 
WM. WHIPPLE. 



Governor of New Jersey. 



Fro?n a Committee of Congress to Governor Livingston. 

•Philadelphia, November 11th, 1778. 

Sir, — Permit us to call your attention for a moment 
to the detection and punishment of a crime against the 
public. Persons in office under the continent have as 
we are informed, used the monies entrusted to them in 
the engrossing of articles upon the pubhc. This seeth- 
ing of the kid in its mother's milk calls for the most 
exemplary punishment. We pray that you will urge 



134 CORRESPONDENCE OF THE NEW JERSEY [1778. 

the Legislature of your state to pass laws for the prose- 
cution and punishment of offenders of this kind in 
future, and that in the interim your Excellency will 
cause any who may in your state be guilty of the like 
crimes to be secured for trial in safe and close custody. 
We are, respectfully, your Excellency's most ob't and 
humble servants, 

NATH. SCUDDER, 
GOUV. MORRIS, 
WM. WHIPPLE. 



P. Scull, Secretary of the Board of War, to Governor 
Livingston. 

War Office, December 2d, 1778. 
Sir, — Your Excellency's letter of the 25th ultimo to 
Congress has been referred to this board ; and they now 
direct me to inform you that it must have been occa- 
sioned by mistake or inattention in the affairs, that your 
troops were not furnished with an equal quantity of 
clothing with the rest of the army. A greater propor- 
tion of coats, vests and breeches than will supply the 
whole army has been forwarded to Springfield, in Mas- 
sachusetts ; and the troops from your state could have 
drawn those articles, and were entitled to at least a 
dividend of such as proved deficient. His Excellency, 
General Washington, has informed the board that he 
will give directions about the delivery of clothing ; and 
if the commanding ofificer in Jersey will make out the 



1779.] EXECUTIVE FROM 1776 TO 1786. 135 

necessary returns, there is no doubt but they will be 
complied with on appUcation to head quarters. 

I have the honor to be, with the greatest respect 
your Excellency's most obed't ser't, 

P. SCULL, Secy'. 
His Excellency, Gov'r Livingston. 



From Chief Justice Syimnes to Governor Livingston. 

Morristown, January 7, 1779. 

Sir, — I beg leave to lay before your Excellency, and 
the honorable gentlemen of the Council, the business of 
the state that came before me in the late Circuit, in the 
counties of Hunterdon and Cumberland, which was 
capital ; recommending to the clemency and grace of 
your honor those miserable subjects who are under sen- 
tence of death. 

In the county of Gloucester there is Jonathan Chew 
condemned for high treason ; he was convicted by jury. 
I take it that he was disaffected from the beginning of 
the troubles, and joined the enemy at their coming to 
BilHngsport, and acted as a captain among them. The 
charges laid against him in the indictment of levying 
war and adhering to the enemies of the state was well 
supported, and I cannot think there is any equitable 
circumstance in his favor, either as matter of law or 
fact. But the following considerations may perhaps 
plead for him with your honors for a pardon. 

1. He is a very weak man in his understanding. 

2. He has a family of twelve children, that must be 



136 CORRESPONDENCE OF THE NEW JERSEY [1779. 

objects of charity if their friend is taken away, and 
they have no property left. 

3. It appeared in the Court that he was humane, and 
inchned to distress the inhabitants that were in his 
power as Uttle as possible, in person or property. 

4. He left the enemy after they had retreated through 
Jersey, and came home and threw himself in the way 
of justice, 

Harrison Wells, who traversed his indictment for 
levying war against the states, and adhering to its 
enemies, and convicted thereon. I believe that Mr. 
Wells was a Whig at the beginning ; he was in the 
militia and behaved well. But I cannot say there was 
any equitable circumstance appeared (touching law or 
fact) on his trial that can operate in his favor ; but 
perhaps the following considerations may incline your 
honors to pardon him : 

1. He was undoubtedly over-persuaded by Mr. John 
Hinchman, who had been his guardian, to go and join 
the enemy, which at length he did with some reluctance, 
being partly in compliance to Mr. Hinchman's advice, 
and partly because he was threatened by the militia. 

2. When with the enemy he was offered a Lieuten- 
ant's Commission, which he refused. 

3. It appeared that he early wished to make his 
peace with his country by desiring to surrender himself, 
but found the popular clamor so much against him that 
he dare not do it ; and his house was contiguous to the 
enemy. 

4. When the enemy left Philadelphia, he surrendered 



1779.] EXECUTIVE FROM 1776 TO 1786. 137 

himself at Haddonfield, to the law, refusmg to march 
with the enemy. He appears very penitent. 

Besides Chew and Wells, there are fifteen others 
condemned for high treason against the state ; viz : 
William Hammet, John Dilks, John Franklin, James 
Birch, Joseph Pratt, Joseph Dill, Abraham Fennimore, 
Joshua Dilks, Christopher String, Daniel Fussman, 
Lawrence Cox, David Lloyd, Thomas Nightingale, 
Paterson Cook, and Isaac Lord ; who, after having 
proper time allowed them to consider of a plea, seve- 
rally pleaded guilty to their indictments, which has pre- 
vented the Court from having their causes investigated 
before them ; and I must own that as to by far the greater 
part of them, I know nothing of the nature of their 
guilt, or what favorable circumstances there may be in 
their cases, only as they were charged in their indict- 
ments and pleaded guilty ; but as to William Hammet, 
I believe there is as little to be said in his favor as to 
any of them. I should be exceeding happy, were your 
honors of opinion there was no occasion of farther 
examples in cases of high treason ; that our laws and 
government were sufficiently established, and that noth- 
ing remained but to forgive. But as I think these 
things matters of some doubt, I hope your honors will 
not receive it ill of me if I proceed to say, that were 
the question put to me. Who shall die ? I should be in- 
clined to say, William Hammet. My reasons are. First, 
because he was formerly apprehended and sent to your 
Excellency and the Council of Safety, charged with 
similar offences against his country, and notwithstand- 



138 CORRESPONDENCE OF THE NEW JERSEY [1779. 

ing the Honorable Council of Safety were pleased to 
suffer him to return home, he went immediately and 
joined the enemy. Secondly, he was a daring offender 
while with the enemy, and may be so again. Thirdly, 
he was taken while in the service of the enemy, and 
has at no time since, (if I am rightly instructed,) ex- 
pressed himself a friend to the state, as most of the 
others have ; but he has frequently wished to be sent to 
the enemy again ; and I think the probability is against 
him that he joins them if discharged. Fourthly, he 
has no family that must suffer by his death, as many of 
the others have ; and in making up my mind on this 
subject, I think I am warranted in some measure by the 
opinion of Judge Blackstone, where he speaks of the 
necessity of human punishments. 

There is also one ****** convicted in 
Gloucester county for burglary and robbery. I believe 
he thought the person whom he robbed, a tory, and that 
by the custom of the times, conceived he had a perfect 
right to plunder him. He appears very penitent, and 
has been a brave soldier in the American army. In 
the county of Cumberland there is one capital con- 
viction, and that is *******. for an highway rob- 
bery. He was convicted by jury. There is an appear- 
ance of equity in this man's case. The party robbed, 
who was the principal witness against him, was proved 
to be a tory, and a person of very ill fame ; but I must 
own I am inclined to think the man was actually 
robbed. The Court have, however, thought proper to 
recommend him for pardon, as your honors will see by 
the petition in his favor. 



1779.] EXECUTIVE FROM 1776 TO 1786. 139 

I have the honor to inclose to your Excellency and 
the gentlemen of the Council, all the papers relative to 
the prisoners that have fallen into my hands. I hope 
they will not prove altogether useless. I was not pre- 
sent at Salem when any capital case came before the 
Court. I hope his honor the Chief Justice will point 
out to your honors those matters in which I am defi- 
cient, as he presided at Gloucester, during the trials of 
Chew and Wells, and was alone at Salem when the 
capital trials came on there. 

I have the honor to be, honorable gentlemen, with 
great esteem, your humble servant, 

JOHN CLEVES SYMMES. 
His Excellency, the Governor. 



From Colonel Biddle to Governor Livingston 

Princeton, January 14, 1779. 

Sir, — In my letter of the 1st inst, I had the honor 
to inclose you a resolve of Congress, of the 30th No- 
vember, relative to the Forage Department ; a copy of 
which I now send to you. 

The scarcity of forage is very great, and to lessen 
the consumption we have sent upwards of 2000 horses 
from the army into Pennsylvania, and shall retain no 
more than are actually necessary within the camp. I 
have given orders to forward a considerable quantity of 
grain from the westward and southward by water to 
Trenton as soon as the Delaware opens, and I have 



140 CORRESPONDENCE OF THE NEW JERSEY [1779. 

good information that I may depend upon considerable 
supplies by that channel. 

But such is our present situation, that we must rely 
chiefly on this state to subsist our horses until the open- 
ing of the river, and it is with the greatest difficulty we 
can keep them alive. 

I have therefore to request that your Excellency in 
council, will please to give your aid and advice for 
drawing forth all the forage that can be spared from 
every part of this state ; and I beg leave to suggest that 
a recommendation to the magistrates to carry into exe- 
cution in their several districts, the law for impressing 
forage would have a very good effect. But I submit 
to your wisdom to give such relief as to you may appear 
most hkely to answer the end. 

I have the honor to be, with the greatest respect, 
your Excellency's most obedient and very humble 
servant, 

CLEMENT BIDDLE. 
His Excellency, Gov. Livingston. 



From a Committee of Congress on the Commy and 
Q. M. Department to Governor Livingston. 

Philadelphia, January 19, 1779. 

Sir, — We did ourselves the honor to write to your 
Excellency the 11th of November last on the subject 
of engrossing. Permit us to call your attention once 
more to that subject. The evils feared, when that letter 
was written, now rapidly approach, and the letter from 



1779.] EXECUTIVE FROM 1776 TO 1786. 141 

the commissary-general, of which we enclose a copy, 
gives us the most alarming apprehensions. The wis- 
dom of the state you preside over and your own exer- 
tions will not, we are confident, be wanting to prevent 
the mischiefs arising from that insatiable thirst of gain 
which knows neither principle or bound. 

We will not insult your good sense by dwelHng upon 
this painful topic. Your knowledge of the cause, and 
prudential foresight of the effects will doubtless stimu- 
late you to every measure which you shall deem neces- 
sary for the public service. 

GOUV. MORRIS, 
WM. WHIPPLE. 

Governor of New Jersey. 



From John Fell to Governor Livingston. 

Philadelphia, March 25, 1779. 

Dear Sir, — I cannot help complaining to your Ex- 
cellency of the behavior of some of the delegates from 
our state, which is not only disgraceful to the state, but 
in my humble opinion, treating me with the greatest 
impoUteness ; they take upon them to leave Congress 
when they please and without leave, by which the 
state in course is not represented. Last Saturday 
Dr. Witherspoon went home without ever saying one 
word to me on the occasion, and this day Colonel 
Frelinghuysen went away in the same manner. 

No man has the service of his country more at heart 
than I have ; but then I should choose to be treated in 



142 CORRESPONDENCE OF THE NEW JERSEY [1779. 

such manner as I think I have a right to as a gentle- 
men. And I am certain such treatment from mj col- 
leagues cannot be deemed in that line. Therefore I 
request it as a favor, that I may not be treated in like 
manner in future ; to make my stay here so exceedingly 
disagreeable. 

I received a letter this week from hon'I Mr. Scudder^ 
dated 13th inst, he wrote me he expected to be here in 
about six weeks from that date. When Dr. Scudder 
comes I hope your Excellency will have no objection to 
my paying a visit to my family for a short time. As I 
have engaged to serve the state for the time of my 
appointment I undoubtedly shall do it, to the best of my 
power and ability. However, I hope the honorable 
Assembly will pay some regard to the increase of pay 
for my service, as every kind of expense has advanced 
in this city upwards of 50 per cent, since my appoint- 
ment. It is with great reluctance I am under the 
disagreeable necessity to mention a circumstance of this 
kind, but my private fortune has suffered so much from 
the great losses I have met with, as well as my long, 
cruel captivity, that I shall not be able to support the 
extraordinary expense long. I am certain there is no 
member in Congress does more duty than I do. Every 
morning at the commercial committee, afterwards at 
Congress, and three stated nights in a week at the 
marine committee, besides occasional committees ; in 
short, there has been very few nights this winter that I 
have not been engaged in business. And riot to be 
able to live in the manner I have ever been used to, 



1779.] EXECUTIVE FROM 1776 TO 1786. 143 

without spending my own money as well as time, is 
rather too unreasonable for the pubhc to desire of any 
individual. 

I was exceedingly happy to hear you were from home 
when the enemy came to pay you a visit ; as I am 
certain you are not one of those gentlemen who they 
have the greatest regard for. I should imagine Princeton 
or Trenton would be a much more eligible place for 
your residence than Elizabethtown. Your being 
taken, besides the many disagreeable circumstances of 
being a prisoner, would be of the utmost bad conse- 
quence, as I know of no person in our possession that 
you could be exchanged for; — however the subject is 
too melancholy to dwell on. 

I have the honor to be, with great respect, your 
Excellency's most humble servant, 

JOHN FELL. 
His Excellency, Gov. Livingston. 



Memorial of the Officers of the Jersey Brigade to the 
Legislature. 

To the Honorable the Legislative Council and General 

Assembly of the state of New Jersey. 

It is with great reluctance that the officers of the 
Jersey brigade undertake to address you. 

They had reason to expect that you would (fr(5m 
principles of justice as well as necessity) before this 
time have taken such measures as would have rendered 
it unnecessary, but the circumstances of your troops 



144 CORRESPONDENCE OF THE NEW JERSEY [1779. 

have become such that it would now be crimmal to be 
silent. The Legislature need not be informed that our 
pay is now only nominal, not real, that four mouths' 
pay of a private will not procure his wretched wife 
and children a single bushel of wheat. The situation 
of your officers is worse. The pay of a Colonel of 
your regiments will not purchase the oats for his horse, 
nor will his whole day's pay procure him a single 
dinner. A common laborer or an express rider receives 
four times as much as he. It would be superfluous for 
us to point out all our grievances, they are many, they 
are great, they are known to you. It is therefore a 
duty we owe our country, a duty we owe ours^ves, to 
inform you in the most plain and unambiguous terms, 
that unless a speedy and ample remedy be provided, the 
total dissolution of your troops is inevitable. The 
spirit of desertion has already taken place, and has risen 
to the most alarming height. Combinations of large 
parties to desert are almost every day discovered, and 
the utmost vigilance of the officers is not able to 
prevent it. 

The soldiers estimate the money truly, by what it 
will purchase. They have frequently been heard to 
say "that it was true British pay was very small, but 
notwithstanding, two days' pay would purchase a quart 
of rum, and with us a month's pay would not more 
than do it. 

In the year 1776 the pay of the officers and soldiers 
afforded no more than a scanty subsistence. Since 
that period the currency has depreciated in most articles 



.779.] EXECUTIVE FROM 1776 TO 1786. 145 

)f life more than two thousand per cent. Are we then 
o risk our Hves in the field of battle, to submit to all 
he inconveniences of a camp hfe, to be deprived of 
he sweets of domestic happiness, and subsist upon one 
;wentieth part of a sufficiency ? 

Congress, seeing the enormous rise of the necessaries 
)f hfe, so long ago as December, 1777, recommended 
;o the several states to provide all necessary clothing 
■or their officers and soldiers at prices proportioned to 
lieir pay. We had examples of the states both of the 
southward and eastward complying with this resolution, 
md in many instances exceeding it. 

That your troops are less brave, or have done less 
iuty than any troops in the union, is a position that 
Qone have been hardy enough to advance, and why 
:hey should be so long neglected is a problem in politics 
liard to be explained. 

Pennsylvania has lately passed some resolves in favor 
3f her troops. Maryland has adopted the same ; — some 
3ther states have done more, but none of them have 
lone enough. 

The families of officers and soldiers should some 
WSLY be provided for. If our pay was in Spanish 
milled dollars (and that was the contract between Con- 
gress and us) we could provide for them ; we therefore 
[leither ask nor wish for more than a compliance 
with the original contract. 

Pay us in Spanish milled dollars or give us an equiv- 
ilent, and our complaints shall instantly cease. 

Elizabethtown, April 17th, 1779. 
10 



146 CORRESPONDENCE OF THE NEW JERSEY [1779. 



W. Ogden, Col. 
Davd. Brearley, Lt. Col. 
Danl. Piatt, Major. 
Jona. Forman, Capt. 
Giles Mead, Capt. 
Alex. Mitchel, Capt. 
P. V. Voorhies, Capt. 
John Holmes, Capt. 
Aaron Ogden, Capt. 
A, Wni. Pratt, Lt. 
Cyrus DeHart, Lieut. 



Wm. DeHart, Lt. Col. 
R. Howell, Major. 
Jno. HoUingshead, Capt. 
Jno. N. Cummings, Capt. 
Sam. Reading, Capt. 
Jonth. Phillips, Capt. 
Saml. Henry, Capt. 



Elias Dayton, Col. 
F. Barber, Lt. Col. 
John Conway, Major. 
Jno. Ross, Capt. 
W. Gifford, Capt. 
Jer. Ballard, Capt. 
Jos. T. Anderson, Capt. 
Seth Johnson, Capt. 



Isf Regiment. 

Jno. Howell, Lieut. 
Wm. Barton, Lt. 
Ab. Martin, Lt. 
Eplmi. Whitlock, Lieut. 
C. Lott, Lt. 

Jonathan Snowden, Lt. 
Absalom Bonham, Lt. 

Silas , Lt. 

Jno. Bishop, Ens'n. 
Wm. M. Barnet, Surg. 

2d Regiment. 

Nathl. Bowman, Capt. 
Wm. Helms, Capt. 

Sam. . 

Abm. Appleton, Lieut. 
Saml. Shute, Lt. 
Ben. Osmun, Lt. 

2>d Regiment. 

Jonathan Dayton, Lt. 
Nathl. Leonard, Lt. 
Edmund D. Thomas, Jun. 
Eph. Darby, Lt. 
Sam. L. Shippard, Lt. 
John Reed, Lt. 
Jno. . 



From General Maxwell to the Legislature. 

Elizabethtown, April 25th, 1779. 
Gentlemen, — I have written or waited on jou at 
every time of your sitting for two years past, or per- 
mitted officers to wait on you as a close attention to 



L779.] EXECUTIVE FROM 1776 TO 1786. 147 

[ny duty would permit me, with a design to draw your 
attention to the distresses of the officers or soldiers of 
^our brigade. I suppose by this time I shall be thought 
troublesome by some, but however some individuals 
Qiay think of the matter, yet so long as I am honored 
with my present station I shall look on it as my duty to 
represent to your honorable house every grievance I 
find among your troops or even amongst your inhabit- 
ants within the district of my command. With respect 
to the distresses of your troops I have no doubt they 
are visible to the meanest capacity in the country. 
They have been so shamefully neglected by the Legis- 
lature of the state that I am now at a loss how to 
address on the subject ; a state who claims credit with 
any of her sister states of her size on the continent, in 
turning out her equal number of militia as well as con- 
tinental troops, on all occasions, for the defence of our 
rights and privileges; and that their military prowess has 
equally gained credit with their alertness, is what I 
beheve none will deny. I say after all these circum- 
stances in favor of the troops of the state of New 
Jersey, is it not strange the Legislature should not think 
them worthy of their notice or care when brought to 
the field ; incredible as it may seem, it is certainly true, 
to such a length has the neglect and injustice been 
carried that had any private person attempted to treat 
his servant in such a manner, the law of the state 
would have found such servant ample redress. I will 
give a few instances on the contract by way of example, 
viz. when the soldier and officer engaged to serve the 



148 CORRESPONDENCE OF THE NEW JERSEY [1779. 

State or continent, a continental dollar was worth a 
Spanish silver dollar, and would have bought equally 
as much of any article the officer or soldier wanted to 
purchase ; now those very people whose servants these 
officers and soldiers are, will require now for some 
articles of their own manufacture or raising near 
twenty continental dollars for what one silver one 
would have purchased then, and in some other articles 
much more. Where is the justice or equity of this pro- 
ceeding ? None I presume can be offered. Shall we 
then expect less justice from the legislators of our state 
than from private persons ? I hope not. Therefore I 
make no doubt you will immediately set about making 
ample recompense for the injustice done your troops in 
time past, and a sufficient subsistence for them for ihe 
time to come. I make no doubt you will instantly set 
about doing your troops justice, therefore I beg leave to 
give you my sentiments on your mode of doing it. I 
would not have you to copy after Pennsylvania entirely, 
although they deserve great credit for what they have 
done, considering the quantity of back water their 
wheels of government have to force their way through. 
I would not have you to furnish your troops with 
muscovado sugar at 3s. 9d. per lb., above five times its 
former value when we entered the service, nor common 
tea at 12 shilHngs per lb., above twice its value, and 
other things in proportion ; nor with one suit of clothes 
in the year at the old prices, when the value of two 
suits in clothes will scarcely serve. I would have you 
to furnish them with such articles and necessaries as 



1779.] EXECUTIVE FROM 1776 TO 1786. 149 

they may think suitable for them, equal to their full pay 
at the time and prices when they entered the service. 
This I call justice and no compliment : if you fail in any 
article of this by not having it in your power to get it, 
you must make ample amends in something else that is 
suitable. Pay your military as you ought to do, and 
you may expect their labor, yea, I say command it. It 
is useless for you to say you are not able to pay in full 
value. I ask pardon, I know better ; your merchants 
and farmers never were so rich in this world before. I 
cannot say what provision they have laid up for the 
other world, but if we are to judge by the old rules 
" to lay up treasures in heaven, such as charity, virtue, 
public spiritedness, &c. &c.," I think they have not put 
much in that bank lately, it is likely they intend it when 
the hard money comes in use. The farmer as well as 
the merchant is come to knowledge that every thing is 
worth what it will bring, and notwithstanding he knows 
that the security of his property and privileges has cost 
the soldier dear in heats, colds, thirsting, hunger and 
watching, yet they will make no scruple to strip him of 
his month's pittance for a day's subsistance and the other 
for a toy. Charity will not carry any of them further 
than a drink of cold water, which shows the absolute 
necessity of the officers and soldiers having a decent 
subsistence to support them according to the custom of 
the times, without trusting to charity. I believe it will 
hardly be denied that the soldiers have been the last of 
the community who have given up their living on honor 
and virtue, they stood firmly to it till many thousands 



150 CORRESPONDENCE OF THE NEW JERSEY [1779. 

perished that would now have been in the land of the 
living had they been taken proper care ot, and which 
was in the power of the states to have done. Falstaff 
justly says that " honor will not clothe a man's back, 
nor fill his belly, nor mend a broken leg or arm," there- 
fore one good turn must deserve another, and that in 
such a manner that no misconstruction can be put on 
its value. 

As to your making some provision for your servants 
that are rendered unfit for further service, or to those 
who have been brought up to no other business, or for 
the widows or orphans of those brave men who have 
fallen in your service, humanity must dictate that 
some provision be made for them. I know I could not 
suffer an old dog to perish for want who had served me 
faithfully, if I had it in my power to serve him. It is 
well known that the pay of the British army was 
established above two hundred years ago, and that the 
officers' and soldiers' pay was then honorable and gen- 
erous, but since that time the money has depreciated in 
its value, at least as three to one, owing to its increase 
in quantity : it is also well known that no officer in 
the British service under the rank and pay of Captain 
can support himself on his pay but by the greatest par- 
simony, or from his private fortune or friends, and from 
the Captain upwards their pay is no more than a decent 
support, therefore as the public have taken them into 
their service and has not thought proper to allow them 
more than a bare subsistence, it was reasonable to 
expect that some support would be provided for them 



1779.] EXECUTIVE FROM 1776 TO 1786. 151 

by the public when they were old or disabled, or to 
those whose services may be wanted in future, as well 
as to widows and orphans. It is well known that the 
pay of our troops (the officers I mean) has never been 
as high in continental currency as the British officers' 
is in sterling, therefore would I imagine that we are 
entitled to equal recompense at the end of the war with 
them. However, in this case I would recommend it to 
you to copy after that kingdom or state whose discipline 
you think the most perfect. You have plenty to make 
your choice from. Something concerning the weak- 
ness of your civil authority in time of war (especially 
when the enemy are on your borders) to serve the state 
effectually, shall be the subject of my next. 

I am, gentlemen, with much respect and esteem, 

WM. MAXWELL. 
His Excellency, Gov. Livingston. The honorable 

Council and General Assembly of the state of 

New Jersey. 



From General Maxwell to the Legislature. 

Elizabethtown, April 26th, 1779. 
Gentlemen, — I promised in my last of yesterday to 
give you some hints wherein I thought your Civil Poli- 
cy was weak, and not sufficient to answer the exigency 
of the times, when an enemy is in your state or on 
your borders. I will give you some instances, viz : I 
will suppose a tory is taken up, going to or coming from 
the enemy, and may possibly be twenty or thirty miles 



152 CORRESPONDENCE OF THE NEW JERSEY [1779. 

from his former abode ; in that case the magistrate 
where he is taken can do nothing with him ; then the 
mihtary must go that distance and take all the evidence 
with him, and when that is done, if his crime is not so 
capital as will be likely to hang him, the justice imme- 
diately takes bail of him, and if his former residence 
was on the lines, which is commonly the case, he 
cannot prevent him from hving there ; the magistrate 
says he cannot bail him, and then orders him to be con- 
fined to some county at a distance. I believe his ob- 
servations to be right, but some remedy ought to be 
provided for such evils. I suppose there are five or six 
or more such persons between this place and Wood- 
bridge, that are turned loose upon the shore, who have 
been over with the enemy some one year, some eight- 
een months, and others longer, so that they return to us 
with the addition of seven devils more than thev were 
possessed of before, by the connections they have 
formed on the other side ; and no doubt but some of 
them are sent over to us by the enemy. Two of 
these sort of fellows were bailed out last winter, and 
when called on to attend Court at Newark they made 
their escape to the enemy and then sent intelligence 
back that the enemy had carried them off The present 
mode might answer well in time of peace, but it cuts a 
shocking figure in time of war. Again, some people 
are encouraging our soldiers to desert, and others buy 
their clothes ; and no one knows what to do with them 
and villainy escapes unpunished for want of necessary 
law. 



1779.] EXECUTIVE FROM 1776 TO 1786. 153 

There are a number of people in this part of the 
country, that it would be much better for the safety of 
the state, that they were moved some to New York and 
others back into the country. That we should keep 
Capt. Kennedy and Capt. McCloud here on parole, is 
very extraordinary ; it is keeping hcensed spies, in our 
very Hues, amongst our troops ; this is carrying com- 
placency beyond anything that I ever saw or heard of. 
Here we much exceed the generosity of princes, by 
suffering such people on our Hues and among our 
troops ; in short, these officers and the tories here pre- 
vent the honest whig from doing his duty for fear of 
having his property destroyed, which they often threaten 
them with. It is well known that Capt. Kennedy car- 
ries on a correspondence with the enemy by the assist- 
ance of his wife and negroes. The Governor knows 
something of this ; it appears by the oath of one of the 
soldiers that was lately secured at Newark, when some 
others deserted, that Capt. Kennedy's negro was to find 
them a boat, and it is Hkely that he did to those that 
went off. If the enemy would not exchange them, 
(which I think they cannot avoid finally,) I would send 
them in on a parole, and if they would not go that way 
I would make a present of them ; it would have been 
well for us had that been done long ere now. Capt. 
McCloud draws his full pay from them in New York, 
and seems to have no visible business here. I think he 
would be much better for us in New York. He cannot 
help speaking against us and our measures and a man 
who will speak hasty in any cause, will act too, when 



154 CORRESPONDENCE OF THE NEW JERSEY [1779. 

he can do it with safety. Mrs. Chandler is much in 
the same way here that McCloud is, with respect to 
her Hving ; but in the way of giving intelHgence to the 
enemy I think her the first in the place. There is not 
a tory that passes in or out of New York or any other 
way, that is of consequence, but what waits on Mrs. 
Chandler ; and mostly all the British officers going in or 
out on parole or exchange, wait on her ; in short, the 
Governor, the whole of the tories, and many of the 
whigs. I think she would be much better in New York, 
and to take her baggage with her, that she might have 
nothing to come back for. Lawyer Ross and some 
other noted tories here I would recommend to be sent 
some distance back in the country, as well as some 
others along the shore between this and Amboy, after 
their characters being properly enquired into by proper 
persons sent here for that purpose by you. They must 
not be persons living near this place, that will do the 
business, it must be people that are not afraid of those 
people's emissaries or friends on the other side. There 
wants a thorough reform here. Several good friends 
have mentioned these hints to me often, but dare not 
apply to the legislature for fear of a discovery. I beg 
you will excuse the roughness of these observations, as 
I have not had time to dress them. 

I am, with respect and esteem, gentlemen, your most 
obed't and h'ble servant, 

W'^ MAXWELL. 
His Excellency, the Governor, Council, and General 
Assembly State New Jersey. 



1779.] EXECUTIVE FROM 1776 TO 1786. 155 

From Frederick Frelinghuysen to the Speaker of the 

Assembly. 

• Trenton, April 29th, 1779. 

Sir, — Agreeable to the appointment of the Legisla- 
ture, I repaired to Philadelphia in the month of January 
last, and have since that lime attended Congress, until 
the public business entrusted to my care in the county 
of Somerset rendered my absence unavoidable. 

It is needless for me to remind the honorable Legis- 
lature, that I did with great reluctance accept of the 
appointment of a delegate for this state in Congress. 
I was then sufficiently sensible that the trust was too 
important for my years and abilities. I am now fully 
convinced that I should do injustice to my country did 
I not decline that service. 

In doing this, I am conscious to myself that I am 
actuated merely by motives for the public good, well 
knowing that whatever may be my abilities, they will 
be useless to the state in the supreme council of the 
Nation, and that the other appointments with which 
the Legislature of New Jersey have been pleased to 
honor me in the county of Somerset, are more than 
sufficient to employ my whole attention. 

I might add some other circumstances which render 
my situation there peculiarly disagreeable, but I fear the 
evils which might arise from my opening myself on this 
subject, would more than counterbalance any good it 
it might probably answer. I trust, however, the repre- 
sentatives of New Jersey will not think it impertinent 



156 CORRESPONDENCE OF THE NEW JERSEY [1779. 

in one who lias faithfully endeavored to serve his 
country, to declare to them that the interests of America 
loudly call on them for extraordinary vigilance. 

I shall say nothing respecting the amazing expense 
of attending Congress, and my inabiUty to support it. I 
am determined not to complain till the last farthing of 
my little property is spent in the service of my country ; 
and then, perhaps, I shall have the consolation to see 
poverty esteemed as the characteristic of an honest 
man. 

\ conchide with observing, I am particularly moved 
to wish for a release from the appointment, as it has 
been hinted to me that my colleague Mr. Fell is ex- 
ceedingly uneasy that he is so often left alone to manage 
the weighty affairs of state, and that he has even ex- 
pressed himself with warmth and temper on the sub- 
ject in his letters to the Legislature. I shall only say 
I am ready at all times to give an account of my con- 
duct to those who appointed me, 

I trust the Legislature will take into consideration 
and gratify my request of being excused from the 
farther attendance at Congress. 

I am, sir, your most obedient and humble serv't, 

FRED»^ FRELINGHUYSEN. 
Hon'ble Caleb Camp, Speaker of the Assembly. 

Memorial of the Oncers of the Jersey Brigade. 

To the Honorable the Council and General Assembly of the State 
of New Jersey. 

Gentlemen, — Our being now under marching orders 



1779.] EXECUTIVE FROM 1776 TO 1786. 157 

induces us to this our second remonstrance, occasioned 
by jour too long delay and inattention to us. 

We therefore with the greatest concern and reluct- 
ance inform you, that unless we have an immediate 
relief, and the depreciation of currency made good, we 
shall be under the necessity of leaving a service we 
would wish to continue in while we can be supported. 

Unless we do within three days receive the former of 
these demands, and full assurances of the latter being 
comphed with as early as possible, we request officers 
may be immediately appointed in place of 

Your most obed't, humble serv'ts. 

Elizabethtown, 6th May, 1779. 

Jno, Forman, Capt., Abm. Martin, Lieut. 

Giles Mead, do. Ephm. Whitlock, do. 

Alex'r Mitchell, do. Edw'd Burrows, do. 

P. V. Voorhies, do. P. Lott, do. 

John Holmes, do. Silas , do. 

Aaron Ogden, do. Absalom Bonham,do. 

Jacob Piatt, Lieut. Asher Levy, Ensign. 

Wm. Piatt, do. Jno. , do. 

Cyrus DeHart, do. Jno. Bishop, do. 

Jno. Howell, do. Jn. Snowden, Lieut. 
Wm. Barton, do. 



Memorial of Major Cummings and Capt. Anderson. 

To the Honorable, the Legislature of the State of New Jersey — 

Gentlemen, — We being appointed by the officers of 
the Jersey brigade to make such representations to our 
Honorable House (respecting the depreciation of your 
pay,) as to us might appear expedient, beg leave to pre- 
sent the following : 



158 CORRESPONDENCE OF THE NEW JERSEY [1779. 

Being fully sensible that by reason of the many and 
most important matters in which you must be necessa- 
rily employed, those of less consequence to the general 
good may in some degree be neglected and forgotten; 
we beg leave to remind honorable Body of the petition 
of the twenty-sixth of May, dehvered by Colonel D'Hart 
and Dr. Elmer in behalf of the officers and soldiers of 
the brigade, requesting that the certificates on account 
of the depreciation of our pay, might be more effectually 
secured by the mortgage of those estates that are al- 
ready or may hereafter be confiscated. 

Placing a firm reliance upon your entire willingness 
to pay every possible attention to the representations of 
your brigade, and confiding in your laudable endeavors 
to give them the most ample satisfaction in your powder 
consistent with the public weal, we take the Hberty to 
request in the most earnest manner, that we may be 
' placed on an equal (or the same) footing with that of 
the troops belonging to the state of New York. 

We were never yet made sensible either by general 
or particular instances of any superior merit in the offi- 
cers and soldiers of that sfate, to those employed under 
you ; nor can we be induced to think that the legisla- 
ture of any state can be more desirous of encouraging 
merit, or more willing to render strict justice to their 
army than that of ours. Deeply impressed with these 
sentiments of your liberality and strict adherence to 
justice, we have ventured to trouble you with the fore- 
going representations, being convinced from cool and 
impartial reflection, that no sufficient objection can be 



1779.] EXECUTIVE FROM 1776 TO 1786. 159 

oflfered against a request, which to us appears to be 
founded on the grand principle of equity and economy. 
For we conceive that the mode above alhided to, as 
having been estabHshed by the legislative authority of 
the State of New York, would be equally conducive to 
the interests of the state and that of the brigade, since 
it must consequently save to the former an annual inte- 
rest of as much as the certificates draw, more than the 
rents arising from the confiscated estates; and will give 
to the latter the most ample satisfaction, by affording 
them an opportunity of realizing their notes, which 
must otherwise be exposed to the disadvantages of an 
equal invalidity with the new emission. 

We are, gentlemen, with the greatest respect, your 
obedient servants, 

J. N. CUMMINGS, 

Major 1st R. Jersey. 

J. ANDERSON, 

Capt. in 1st Reg't, N. J. 



Froin Brigadie?- General Maxwell to General 
Washington. 

Elizabethtown, May 6th, 1779. 
Sir, — I am just informed by Col. Ogden that the 
officers of the first regiment have delivered him a 
remonstrance to our Legislature with their commis- 
sions, informing them that if they have not some 
immediate redress with respect to their pay and support 
they will look on themselves as out of the service at the 



160 CORRESPONDENCE OF THE NEW JERSEY [1779. 

expiration of three days. They will however put the 
regiment in the most proper order for marching, or take 
care of it till the 'state has reasonable time to supply 
other officers. This is a step they are extremely 
unwilling to take, but it is such as I make no doubt 
they will all take. Nothing but the necessity of their 
not being able to support themselves in time to come, 
and being loaded with debts the time past, could have 
induced them to resign at so critical a time, when their 
country so much wants their services. They begged the 
Cohmel to make it known to those concerned that they 
had not taken this step through any design of cabal or 
disaffection, as they had not desired or wished an officer 
of any other regiment to join them, that they would 
have come to this resolution long before now, but from 
their unwillingness to leave the service they so much 
respected, and that their former applications, with 
those lately made to their Legislature, they thought 
would have drawn their attention to their distresses. 
They say the clothier for this state has informed 
them that the assembly has given him orders to pur- 
chase to the value of £150 worth of clothing for 
each officer, which they say will not do much more 
than get them a coat. 

Col. Ogden is going off to the Assembly to lay the 
affair before them, and expects to be back in three days. 
I have in haste endeavored to convey the substance of 
what Col. Ogden informed me to your Excellency, and 
am, &c., WM. MAXWELL. 



1779.] EXECUTIVE FROM 1776 TO 1786. 161 

From General Washington to Brigadier-General 
Maxwell. 

Head-Quarters, Middle-brook, May 7, 1779. 

Sir, — I have received your favor of yesterday, vi^ith 
iufinite concern ; there is nothing which has happened in 
the course of the war, which has given me so much 
pain as the remonstrance you mention from the officers 
of the 1st Jersey Regiment. I cannot but consider it 
as a hasty and imprudent step, which on more cool 
consideration they will themselves condemn. 

I am very sensible of the inconveniences under which 
the officers of the army labor, and hope they do me the 
justice to beheve that my endeavors to procure them re- 
lief are incessant. There is however more difficulty in 
satisfying their wishes than perhaps they are aware. 
Our resources have been hitherto very limited ; the situa- 
tion of our money is no small embarrassment, for which, 
though there are remedies, they cannot be the work of 
a moment. Government is not insensible of the merits 
and sacrifices of the officers, nor, I am persuaded, un- 
willing to make a compensation, but it is a truth of 
which a little observation must convince us that it is 
very much straitened in the means. Great allowances 
ought to be made on this account for any delay and 
seeming backwardness which may appear. Some of 
the states indeed have done as generously as it is, at 
this juncture, in their power ; and if others have been 
less expeditious, it ought to be ascribed to some pecuhar 
cause, which a little time, aided by example, will remove. 
11 



162 CORRESPONDENCE OF THE NEW JERSEY [1779. 

The patience and perseverance of the army have been, 
under every disadvantage, such as to do them the high- 
est honor, both at home and abroad ; and have inspired 
me with an unlimited confidence in their virtue, which 
has consoled me amidst every perplexity and reverse of 
fortune to which our affairs, in a struggle of this nature, 
were necessarily exposed. Now that we have made so 
great a progress to the attainment of the end we have 
in view, so that we cannot fail without a most shameful 
desertion of our own interests, anything hke a change 
of conduct would imply a very unhappy change of 
principles, and a forgetfulness as well of what we owe 
to ourselves as to our country. Did 1 suppose it possi- 
ble this could be the case even in a single regiment of 
the army, I should be mortified and chagrined beyond 
expression. I should feel it as a wound given to my 
own honor, which I consider as embarked with that of 
the army at large. But this I believe to be impossible. 
Any corps that was about to set an example of this 
kind, would weigh well the consequences, and no officer 
of common discernment and sensibility would hazard 
them. If they should stand alone in it, independent of 
other consequences, what would be their feelings on 
reflecting that they had held themselves out to the 
world in a point of light inferior to the rest of the 
army I Or if their example should be followed and 
become general, how would they console themselves for 
having been foremost in bringing ruin and disgrace upon 
their country 1 They would remember that the army 
would share a double portion of the general infamy and 



1779.] EXECUTIVE FROM 1776 TO 1786. 163 

distress ; and that the character of an American officer 
would become as despicable as it is now glorious. 

I confess the appearances in the present instance are 
disagreeable, but I am convinced they seem to me more 
than they really do. The Jersey officers have not 
been outdone by any others, in the quaUties either of 
citizens or soldiers ; and I am confident no part of them 
would seriously intend anything that would be a stain 
to their former reputation. The gentlemen cannot be 
in earnest, they have only reasoned wrong about the 
means of obtaining a good end, and on reconsideration 
I hope and flatter myself they will renounce what must 
appear improper. At the opening of a campaign, when 
under marching orders, for an important service, their 
own honors, duty to the pubUc and themselves, a regard 
to military propriety, will not suffer them to persist 
in a measure which would be a violation of them all. 
It will even wound their delicacy coolly to reflect that 
they have hazarded a step which has an air of dicta- 
ting terms to their country, by taking advantage of the 
necessity of the moment. 

The declaration they have made to the states at so 
critical a time, that unless they obtain relief in the short 
period of three days, they must be considered out of 
the service, has very much this aspect ; and the seem- 
ing relaxation of continuing till the state can have a 
reasonable time to provide other officers, will be thought 
only a superficial veil. 

I am now to request that you will convey my senti- 
ments to the gentlemen concerned, and endeavor to 



164 CORRESPONDENCE OF THE NEW JERSEY [1779- 

make them sensible that they are in error. The ser- 
vice for which the regiment was intended will not 
admit of delay ; it must at all events march on Monday 
morning in the first place to the camp, and further 
directions will be given when it arrives. I am sure I 
shall not be mistaken in expecting a prompt and cheer- 
ful obedience. 

I am, &c. G« WASHINGTON. 



From the Captains and Subalterns of the 1st Regirnent 
of New Jersey to General Washington. 

Elizabethtown, May 8, 1779. 
Sir, — General Maxwell has communicated to us the 
substance of a letter from your Excellency of yesterday. 
It has made us very unhappy that any act of ours 
should give your Excellency pain. But we trust when 
you are made acquainted with the circumstances that 
induced us to take these measures, that so far from cen- 
suring us you will approve our conduct. The reason 
that we have not heretofore made your Excellency 
acquainted with our peculiar hard circumstances were, 
that it would be giving you uneasiness without answer- 
ing any valuable end ; for we are truly sensible of the 
incessant pains your Excellency has taken for the benefit 
of your army. You are pleased to say that you cannot 
but consider the late step of the officers hasty and im- 
prudent. That it was not hasty we will readily prove, 
and whether imprudent, future events, in some measure, 



1779.] EXECUTIVE FROM 1776 TO 1786. 165 

must determine, though dire necessity with us admitted 
no alternative. 

It will be proper to inform your Excellency that the 
officers of the Jersey Brigade have repeatedly and at 
almost every session of the Assembly, since January, 
1778, memoriahzed them upon the necessities of the 
troops, — and the reasonableness of their making them 
some compensation for their servvices , that the mem- 
bers of the legislature, individually, always assured the 
gentlemen who waited on them with the memorials, 
that something very generous should be done for the 
troops, but we have the misfortune to inform your 
Excellency that not a single resolve was ever entered 
on their Minutes in our favor until within two weeks. 
So long ago as last winter we informed the council of 
our determination to leave the service unless we were 
properly provided for ; and from them we again received 
assurances that provision should be made for us. At 
the beginning of the present session a resolution was 
sent into them signed by every officer of the brigade, a 
copy of which we have enclosed, and so far were they 
from complying with the reasonable requisitions con- 
tained in it, that they have referred it to Congress. 
Thus are we circumstanced ; we have lost all confi- 
dence in our legislature. Reason and experience forbid 
that we should have any. Few of us have private 
fortunes : many have families who already are suffering 
everything that can be received from an ungrateful 
country. Are we then to submit to all the inconve- 
niences, fatigue, and dangers of a camp life, while our 



166 CORRESPONDENCE OF THE NEW JERSEY [1779. 

wives and children are perishing for want of common 
necessaries at home ; and that without the most distant 
prospect of reward, for our pay is now only nominal. 
We are sensible that your Excellency cannot wish or 
desire it from us. We are sorry you should imagine 
that we meant to disobey orders ; it was and still is our 
determination to march with our regiment, and do the 
duty of officers until the legislature shall have a rea- 
sonable time to appoint others, but no longer. 

We beg leave to assure your Excellency that we 
have the highest sense of your abilities and virtues ; 
that executing your orders has ever given us pleasure ; 
that we love the service and we love our country ; 
but when that country is so lost to virtue and justice as 
to forget to support its servants, it then becomes their 
duty to retire from the service. 

We are, &c., by order, 
JONATHAN FORMAN, 1st Capt. 



\ From General Washingston to Brigadier General 

Maxwell. 

Head Quarters, Middle Brook, May 10th, 1779. 
Sir, — The short stay you made at head quarters 
and my attention being otherwise engrossed, prevented 
my entering upon the subject of the letter from the 
officers of the 1st Jersey regiment, transmitted in yours 
of the 8th inst. I am sorry to find the gentlemen per- 
sist in the principles which dictated the step they have 



1779.] EXECUTIVE FROM 1776 TO 1786. 167 

taken, as the more the affair unfolds itseh' the more 
reason I see to disapprove. But in the present view 
thej have of the matter, and with their present feehngs 
it is not probable any new arguments that could be 
offered would have more influence than the former. 
While therefore the gentlemen continue in the execu- 
tion of their duty, as they declare themselves heartily 
disposed to do, I shall only regret that they have taken 
a step of which they must hereafter see the impropriety. 

There is one thing to which I cannot forbear calling 
your particular attention. I observed in the memorial 
of which the officers transmitted me a copy, that the 
gentlemen dwell among other things upon the insuffi- 
ciency of the soldiers' pay. This is a doctrine full of 
dangerous consequences, and which ought not to be 
countenanced in any way whatever, neither is it well 
founded. 

The pay given in other armies is httle more than 
nominal ; very low in the first instance, and subject to 
a variety of deductions which reduce it to nothing. 
This is the case with the British troops, though I 
believe they receive more than those of any of the 
European armies. The idea of maintaining the sol- 
diers' families at home at the public expense is peculiar 
to us ; and is incompatible with the finances of any 
government. Our troops have been uniformly better 
fed than any others ; they are at this time very well 
clad, and I hope will continue to be so. It is important 
that any misconception on this point should be rectified. 
I suppose every officer incapable of encouraging im- 



168 CORRESPONDENCE OF THE NEW JERSEY [1779. 

proper expectations in his men ; but I must also hope 
that every exertion will be made to suppress them. 
I am, &c., 

G^ WASHINGTON. 



From the Board of War to Governor Livingston and 
the Speaker of the Assembly. 

War Office, May 22d, 1779. 
Gentlemen, — Congress having directed us to give 
the information required by the representation to them 
from the honorable Council and Assembly of your state, 
we have the honor of communicating to you every 
thing on the subject our circumstances as the returns 
enable us to inform. 

By the last return of General Maxwell's brigade 
there were in the 3 New Jersey regiments — 
Gen'I Maxwell's brigade, by return of April last — 
Sergeants, - - - - 71 

Drums and Fifes, - - - 50 

Rank and File, - - - 890 

1011 

Spencer's regiment, by the return of March last — 
Sergeants, - - - - 8 

Drums and Fifes, - - - 6 

Rank and File, - - - 126 

140 

Forman's regiment, by the return of December last — 
Sergeants, _ _ _ _ 5 

Drum, - - , - _ 1 

Rank and File, - - - 62 



1779.] EXECUTIVE FROM 1776 TO 1786. 

Sheldon's regiment — 

1 troop of horse, - - . 

Artillery, 1 company probably, - 

InvaUds, - _ - - 



Wanting to complete three regiments, 



169 



33 




30 




12 


% 




75 




1294 


_ 


365 



1659 



Complement of non-commissioned officers 
and privates for 3 regiments of infantry, 
by estabhshment of May 27th, 1778, - 1659 
The present state of the 3 New Jersey regiments is 
as follows : 



Ogden's — 
Shrieve's — 
Dayton's — 



Sergeants. 
21 
27 
23 



Drums and Fifes. Rank and File. 
20 283 

12 317 

18 290 



50 



Total, 71 

Wanting to complete — 

Sergeants. Drums and Fifes. 

Ogden's— 8 

Shrieve's— 2 8, 

Dayton's— 6 2 



890 

Rank and File. 
221 
187 
214 



IG 10 622 

The men enlisted in Count Pulaski's legion were 
engaged for one year only. Their time of service is 
nearly expired, and the men raised in Jersey, from an 



170 CORRESPONDENCE OF THE NEW JERSEY [1779. 

aversion to serving with foreigners, are all deserted. 
And if they were now in the corps, they would not be 
the objects of the resolution of Congress of the 15th 
of March last, as that operates only in cases of men 
enlisted for three years, or during the war. We have 
supposed that all the men of r'orman's and Spencer's 
regiments were enlisted in New Jersey, which can 
hardly be the case, as the numbers now in these regi- 
ments are the remnants of those collected from the 
several states ; and these regiments having been 
recruited in the United States at large, though perhaps 
the greater part of one of them was raised in Jersey, 
it is scarcely probable that the Jersey men are the only 
survivors of the many who have been in the corps. 
Sheldon's troop and the artillery company have been 
only calculated upon conjecture, as we have not any 
distinction made in the general return of the army 
between the men enlisted in the several states which 
belong to the corps in which this troop and company 
are now serving. So soon as we receive particular 
returns from the commander-in-chief, we shall imme- 
diately transmit them agreeably to the direction of the 
resolution of the 15th March last. But we have no 
hopes of being speedily enabled to do this, as we do 
not suppose the General will make the return to us 
until he has collected the necessary information from 
the whole army. We will beg leave to add that we 
have always understood that the greatest number of 
Forman's regiment was raised in Maryland. 

We have, from a desire to state the matter in every 



1779.] EXECUTIVE FROM 1776 TO 1786. 171 

point of view, made the above calculations to shew the 
difference between the numbers Jersey will have to 
raise in either case. But the number last stated as 
wanting to complete the three regiments is in the 
opinion of the board the deficiency your state has to 
supply. Although by the resolution of the 27th May 
last the complement of a battahon was fixed by Con- 
gress at 553, including non-com'd officers, yet it was 
not intended hereby to limit the quotas of the state 
entirely to the completion of their battalions to this 
establishment. Congress had in mind the artillery, 
horse and additional battalions of infantry, which not 
being attached to any state were to be completed from 
the states at large. Lest these corps should be too 
burthensome on the states, there was only a reduction 
of the number of men in the battalion, but also of the 
number of battalions. At first Jersey had four battal- 
ions, and the complement of each was 688, non-com'd 
officers and privates. She now is called upon to raise 
only three battalions, and the establishment is only 553. 
The artillery, horse, &c., stand in the place of the 4th 
battalion, and the extra numbers. It is the same thing 
in the other states in like circumstances, and the officers 
and men of the corps above mentioned were by the 
recommendation of the 15th of March put under the 
care of the states wherein they were respectively raised, 
on a persuasion that they ought to be considered as 
part of the state quotas, though they were not part of 
the battalion complements, which they ought not to be, 
as by making deductions of them from the numbers 



L72 CORRESPONDENCE OF THE NEW JERSEY [1779. 

which ought to be in the regiments, the corps will never 
be complete, but must decrease with the increase of the 
extra corps ; which is not only detrimental to the service 
and disagreeable to the officers, but not agreeable, as we 
conceive, I have always understood, to the sense of 
Congress; who will be obliged, in our opinion, in case 
of deductions from the regimental complements on 
account of the extra corps, to call on the states to raise 
a greater number of battalions. 

We have the honor to be, with the greatest respect, 
your very obed. servants, 

RICHARD PETERS, 
In behalf of the Board. 
His Excellency, Governor Livingston, Honorable 

Caleb Camp, Esq. 



From General Washington to Governor Livingston. 

Head Quarters, Middle Brook, June,' 1779. 
Dear Sir, — General Green has informed me that he 
addressed your Excellency some time since upon the 
subject of wagons, and suggested that it would be 
necessary, owing to the difficulties of procuring them 
in the ordinary way, for the legislature to authorize Col. 
M. Foreman to impress them in cases of exigency. I 
would take the hberty to add that it appears to me 
indispensably necessary for the several legislatures to 
give their earliest attention to this subject, and to adopt 
measures from which supplies of wagons may be 



1779.] EXECUTIVE FROM 1776 TO 1786. 173 

derived in times of emergency, and if this is not done, 
there is every reason to apprehend that the movements 
of the army will be frequently impeded and sometimes 
found impractible. We have already experienced great 
inconveniences on this head, and from the unhappy 
depreciation of our money they will most probably 
increase. I most heartily recommend the subject to 
your Excellency's consideration, and as you will readily 
perceive that the success and even security of an army 
in a variety of cases may depend upon the rapidity 
with which it may be able to move, I am persuaded it 
will have every proper countenance and support on your 
part. 

The desultory kind of war which the enemy seem 
determined to pursue, is a further cogent reason for the 
legislatures interposing with their authority in the 
case. 

I have the honor to be, with sentiments of respect 
and regard, your Excellency's most obe't serv't, 

G^ WASHINGTON. 
His Excellency, Governor Livingston. 



From General Washingtoii to Governor Livingston. 

West Point, August the 26th, 1779. 
Sir, — In a letter which I had the honor of addressing 
to your Excellency on the 22d of May, I took the 
liberty to mention the inconveniences which had pre- 
vailed for want of system in the clothing department, 
and the necessity there was for an early appointment of 



174 CORRESPONDENCE OF THE NEW JERSEY [1779. 

State or sub- clothiers, agreeable to the ordinance estab- 
lished by Congress bv their act of the 23d of March, 
with which I presumed your Excellency had been made 
acquainted. I am now under the necessity of troubling 
you with a farther address upon the subject of clothing 
itself. 

From the best information I have been able to 
obtain, both from returns and particular inquiries, I fear 
there is bat too much reason to apprehend that unless 
the respective states interpose with their exertions, our 
supphes of this essential article will be very deficient, 
and that the troops may again experience on this 
account a part of those distresses which were so 
severely and injuriously felt in the past stages of the 
war, and wdiich a regard to the interests of the states 
as well as to the dictates of humanity should prevent if 
it be practicable. I do not know exactly how it will 
turn out with respect to woolen clothing, I should hope 
tolerably well, but if the attention of the state shall 
ever go to this, there will be little probability of our 
having an over supply. But the articles to which I 
would take the liberty to solicit your Excellency's more 
particular attention are blankets, shirts, shoes and hats, 
(more especially the two first) as our prospect of these 
is by no means pleasing, and such, indeed, as decides 
that the supply from the continental clothiers and agents 
will fall far short, or at least stand upon too critical and 
precarious a footing. The importance and advantages 
of good supphes of clothing are evident, and they have 
been most remarkably and happily demonstrated in the 



1779.] EXECUTIVE FROM 177o TO 1756. 175 

healrli of the troops since they have been prettv com- 
tbrrably provided for in this instance. A circumstance 
ot' all others the most interestins:. 

While I am on the subject ot clothing. I would also 
beg leave to add that the condition of the officers in 
this respect, appears to me to require the attention of 
their states. It is really, in many instances, painfully 
distressing. The want of necessaries and the means 
of procuring them at their present exorbitant prices, has 
compelled a great many officers ot ijood reputation and 
credit to resign their commissions. And if ihev are not 
relieved, it must be the case with manv others, as thev 
will have no alternative. 

I have the honor to be. with the hii::hest respect, liis 
Excellencv's most obed. serv't. 

l>' WASHlXirrOX. 
His Excollencv. liov'r Livingston. 



From Gocernor Livingston to th<' House 0/ Assembiif. 

Trvtiton. Soptomlvr *2A1. 17^11. 

Gentlemen. — I'he Trivy Council have had no agen- 
cy relative to the state regiments, except in the fol- 
lowiuii instances : 

1st. That of allottiui: it to the counties of Bergen. 
Essex. Middlesex, and Monmouth, in the following prv>- 
portions. viz.: To Hergen 050 men : Essex Post 445 
men. and to Monmouth ;>00 men. 

C. That of directing the quota raised b% the couutv 
ot Sussex, to be stationed in that couiu\. 



176 CORRESPONDENCE OF THE NEW JERSEY [1779. 

3. Of appointing Lieut. Col. Taylor, (after Colonel 
Neilson and Colonel Frelinghujsen had been succes- 
sively appointed, and had both refused to accept the 
command,) as an assistant to Colonel Frehnghuysen, 
from the additional duties attending the post at Eliza- 
beth-Town, on account of the flags, and his being 
obliged to visit the other posts, as commandant of the 
whole regiment — which appointment was made from 
the critical exigency of affairs, and in confidence that 
the legislature would at their present sitting, provide for 
his pay, and allowance as a lieutenant-colonel, and if 
not, those officers were to be at liberty to retire, and 
which has eventually appeared to be a fortunate meas- 
ure, as Colonel Frehnghuysen has only by reason of 
his ill state of health, been able to take the command. 
That eight companies of the regiment are stationed in 
the counties of Essex and Middlesex, and seven of 
those companies in Essex, as mentioned in the repre- 
sentation of the honorable House, is neither in conse- 
quence of any order from the Governor, nor did it come 
to his knowlege, till he received the said representation; 
and which, if true, and unless the said companies are 
deficient in their number of men, or particularly sickly, 
appears to him as unequal a distribution as it doth to 
the honorable House ; and for their satisfaction therein, 
he will either write to the commanding officer on the 
subject, or (if the house prefers that mode of inquiry,) 
will order him to attend at this place, for the further 
explanation oi his conduct, which from Col. Taylor's 
known diameter for prudence and impartiality, the 



1779.] EXECUTIVE FROM 1776 TO 1786. 177 

Governor has reason to think will meet their approba- 
tion. In the mean time the Governor will be ready to 
provide copies of all his letters to the officers at the 
different posts, and their letters to him relative to the 
state regiments, to a committee of the House, whenever 
the Assembly shall think proper to appoint one for that 
purpose. 

WILL. LIVINGSTON. 

Privy Council, Sept. 27, 1779. 
His Excellency, the Governor, having laid the repre- 
sentation of the Honorable House of Assembly, relative 
to the stationing the state regiments, before the Board. 
The Council advised his Excellency to answer, which 
he accordingly did ; and the Board do now agree to 
the above answers, as far as respects themselves. 
By order of the Council, 

BOWES REED, Sec'y. 
Hon'ble House of Assembly. 



From Colonel Taylor to Governor Livingston. 

North Branch of Raritan, Sept. 25, 1779. 

Sir, — It was my intention to have inclosed a return 
of the number of officers who have joined the State 
Regiment from each county ; and also the deficiencies 
of each, but not having been able to get the reports of 
the several companies soon enough, owing to their 
separate stations, and the necessity of my attending the 
examination of the students of Queen's College, I have 

12 



178 CORRESPONDENCE OF THE NEW JERSEY [1779. 

at present omitted making such a return, but shall trans- 
mit it, together with the state of the regiment, as soon 
as possible. Enclosed is an account of Doctor Winans, 
who has faithfully attended the troops, and also an ac- 
count of my own, for lodging, &c., which his Excellency 
the Governor, and his honorable Privy Council gave 
Col. Frelinghuysen and myself reason to believe should 
be answered when we accepted the command of the 
regiment. We have not been able to enlist any hght- 
horsemen upon the plan proposed by act of Assembly. 
There are ten horsemen at Elizabethtown, raised from 
the infantry in service at that place. There ought 
to be at least twelve at that post, and twelve more at 
the other different stations. We have one piece of 
artillery, the men to work it also taken from the mus- 
ketry stationed at that place. The season will soon be 
too far advanced for tents, or I should again make 
application for them. The houses in which the troops 
are quartered, having been long made use of for lodging 
soldiers, are become very dirty, and of consequence 
unhealthy. This doubtless is one reason that our men 
are so sickly, that not above one-third of them are ca- 
pable of doing duty. This part of the regiment have, 
and do still labor under many inconveniences, on 
account of no sufficient provision having been made 
for the sick. In the first place, no medicine has been 
provided for them ; and in the next place I found it 
impossible to prevail upon the neighboring surgeon to 
attend them, and make use of their .own medicine 
which they had purchased for private practice, being 
fearful that their bills would not be paid. Many of the 



1779.] EXECUTIVE FROM 1776 TO 1786. 179 

soldiers growing very sick, I at last persuaded Doctor 
Wiiians to attend them, and supply them with medicine 
as far as he should think necessary, by giving my word 
that his accounts should be paid, for which, as enclosed, 
I stand answerable. The Doctor's medicine is now 
expended, and at present there is no surgeon to admin- 
ister advice or medicine to the troops, who continue very 
sickly. 

Many of the men being rendered very weak by 
severe sickness, I thought it imprudent to keep them 
in quarters, both on account of its not being possible 
to secure necessaries for them, and that attendance 
which men in their situation require ; and also on ac- 
count of our being exposed to the sudden invasion of 
the enemy, when many of the men would inevitably 
fall a sacrifice. I then procured a house for a hospital 
at a considerable distance from the town which an- 
swered the purpose for some time, but sickness increas- 
ing rapidly, our hospital was found insufficient to contain 
one half of them. I then sent an officer to Springfield, 
Westfield, and Connecticut Farms, and to every adja- 
cent place where I thought there was a probability of 
success, to endeavor to provide quarters for the sick, but 
all my attempts proved abortive. After finding it im- 
possible to secure the sick, to render their situation in 
any degree comfortable, I permitted them to return 
home until they should recover their health. I need 
not mention to your excellency the many disadvantages 
attending this step. I however feel satisfied from a 
consciousness of having discharged my duty to my 
country, and the regiment under mv command. 



180 CORRESPONDENCE OF THE NEW JERSEY [1779. 

Two or three boats are much wanted at Ehzabeth- 
town as guard boats. They would be a great security 
to the Post and lessen the fatigue of the soldiers. A 
number of men have been sent into service from each 
county, who are not armed and accoutred as the act 
requires. Also many men and boys have been enlisted 
in the regiment, who are by no means fit for soldiers. 
We have stood in great want of a muster-master. 

His Excellency without doubt remembers that the 
Governor and his hcmorable Privy Council called upon 
Col. Frelinghuysen and myself to lake command of the 
state regiment, agreeably to our commissions, which we 
consented to do until the legislature should meet. Col. 
Frelinghuysen has been prevented from joining the 
regiment in consequence of sickness, which still con- 
tinuing, has caused him to resign. His Excellency will 
also recollect that I informed him that I was pre- 
engaged by the trustees of (Queen's College, and that it 
was with great difficulty that I was able to leave the 
business of the College until this vacation. But rather 
than that Col. Frelinghuysen should not take the 
command of the regiment, which he would not accept 
of unless I went with him, I consented to go until the 
Assembly should meet. His Excellency also informed 
me, that if Col. Frelinghuysen would agree to command 
the regiment without me that then he would have no 
objection to my resigning, being a supernumerary. The 
Colonel having resigned, that objection is removed, and 
the trustees of Queen's College insisting upon my ful- 
filling my engagements, I hope I shall be discharged 
from the regiment as soon as possible. It is certain, 



1779.] EXECUTIVE FROM 1776 TO 1786. 181 

the business at Elizabeth-town is too much for one 
person to do. There ought to be two fixed officers 
at that Post, but I cannot be convinced of the necessity 
of a field officer being stationed at Newark ; — a cap- 
tain's command is sufficient for that place. 

I should have done myself the honor of waiting upon 
your Excellency in person, but being seized with a 
severe fever last Monday night, which still continues, 
prevents my going to Trenton at present. 

I shall be much obliged to your Excellency to lay 
this before the Assembly as soon as you shall think 
proper. 

I remain, wdth great respect, your very humble ser- 
vant, JOHN TAYLOR, 

1st Col. New Jersey State Regiment. 
His Excellency, Gov'r Livingston. 



/ 



From General Washington to Governor Livin2:ston. 



''& 



Head Quarters, West Point, Sept. 27th, 1779. 
Dear Sir, — Several concurring reports lead so 
strongly to a supposition that a French squadron may 
be approaching our coast, that I think we cannot with 
propriety altogether neglect them. If this should take 
place it will be incumbent upon us to exert our utmost 
resources in a co-operation ; and I shall be under a 
necessity of applying to the adjacent states for very 
considerable aids of men and supplies, particularly in 
the article of flour, of which our prospects are extremely 
limited, and unpromising. In the present uncertainty, 



182 CORRESPONDENCE OF THE NEW JERSEY [1779. 

without any official advice of the event, I do not think 
we should be justified in adding to our embarrassments 
by calling out a body of militia beforehand : but I 
thought it my duty to give your Excellency the present 
intimation, that you may have the goodness to precon- 
cert such arrangements as will be best adapted to a 
prompt and effectual compliance with the application I 
may have occasion to make. These, as I observed, 
will reach to a speedy and ample supply of even pro- 
visions, and I may add the means of transportation, 
which will also require particular attention in an emer- 
gency of this kind. 

It will be essential that the men should come out 
properly equipped and organized, that there may be no 
delay or trouble on this head — and that they should be 
obliged to serve for a term of two or three months after 
they join the army. 

Your Excellency will be sensible how much the 
honor and interest of these states must be concerned 
in a vigorous co-operation, should the event I have sup- 
posed happen, and I shall place the fullest confidence in 
that wisdom and energy which your Excellency's con- 
duct has afforded such frequent and decisive proofs. 

With the most perfect respect and esteem, I have the 
honor to be your Excellency's most obd't serv't, 

G« WASHINGTON. 
His Excellency, Governor Livingston. 



1779.] EXECUTIVE FROM 1776 TO 1786. 183 

From Enos Kelsey to the Speaker of the Assembly. 

Princeton, September 27th, 1779. 

Sir, — 1 herewith hand you an estimate of sundry 
things now wanted for the officers and soldiers of the 
Jersey brigade, with the prices annexed to tlie same, as 
nearly as these times of uncertainty will admit of. As 
I am now on my way to Philadelphia, I mean to call 
on the clothier-general immediately, and procure from 
him as many of the articles as possible. Such as I 
cannot get that way, I intend purchasing, as far as my 
money will extend, which is ,£28,539. 5. 0. My whole 
attention at present, I beheve, ought to be paid to the 
clothing of the soldiers only. 1 therefore intend at this 
time to engage the stockings, which I think can readily 
be done, purchase linen for one shirt each, and set them 
a making fast as possible. The coats 1 have some 
hope of receiving from the clothier-general, as I am 
well assured he has a great many on hand. The arti- 
cles for the officers, I informed you before, cannot be 
obtained in Philadelphia or Baltimore, agreeably to 
their returns, and as I wish to gratify them in every 
thing that is reasonable, would propose going to Boston 
for them, upon the following conditions, viz. to be 
found a horse, and have my expenses paid, and also the 
expenses of one other person to go with me, as you 
must know it would hardly be possible for me to take 
so large a sum of money alone, besides I should not 
choose to go alone with so considerable a charge, as 
near 30 thousand pounds. You can think of the pro- 



184 CORRESPONDENCE OF THE NEW JERSEY [1779. 

posal till my return, and should it appear reasonable, 
and the house should agree to my going, I will under- 
take the journey. If not, I am content to provide for 
the officers here, as well as it can be done, although I 
believe my scheme would be a saving to the state of 
at least 10 thousand pounds. 

The following are the estimates — 

For the Soldiers. 

5250 yds. Linen, for Shirts. 1500, at 140s. per yd. £36,750 

1443 pair of Hose, 120s. " 8,658 

350 " Shoes, 120s. " 2,100 

726 yds. blue cloth to make coats, 400s. " 14,520 

150 yds. scarlet facing, 600s. " 4,500 

400 yds. Osnaburgs, linings of sleeves, 80s. " 1,600 

300 yds. Shalloon, lining of coats, 140s. " 2,100 









£70,228 


For the 


Officers. 




240 yds. broad cloth. 




80s. per yd. 


£19,200 


250 doz. double gilt buttons, 




16s. " 


2,840 


200 yds. linen for lining breeches. 




6s. " 


1,200 


80 yds. buckram. 




lis. 5d. 


900 


Sundry trimmings for 80 suits. 






320 


80 pair shoes, 




lis. 5d. 


900 


80 pair boots. 




50s. 


4,000 


80 hats, 




70s. 


5,600 


240 pair of hose, 




lis. 5d. 


2,700 


320 pocket handkerchiefs, 




70s. 


2,240 



£40,960 
I am your ob't and hum'e ser't, 

ENOS KELSEY. 
Honl. Caleb Camp, Speaker of the House of Assembly. 



1779.] EXECUTIVE FROM 1776 TO 1786. 185 

From Governor Clinton of New York to Governor 
Livingston. 

Kingston, October 4th, 1779. 

Sir, — It being represented that persons belonging to 
this and the neighboring states have without any proper 
authority formed themselves into parties, and plunder 
and commit other outrages upon the inhabitants of 
Long Island and other places within this state, in the 
power or possession of the enemy, the Senate and 
Assembly of this state on the 1st and 2d instant entered 
into concurrent resolutions on that subject, a copy of 
which I have now the honor of enclosing to you, and 
I am to inform your Excellency that agreeably thereto 
I have issued my proclamation. But you will readily 
perceive that the measures adopted by this state for 
preventing those mischievous practices will prove in- 
effectual unless they are seconded by the co-operation 
of the adjacent states whose subjects are equally con- 
cerned. I am therefore to request your Excellency 
that such measures may be taken in your state as may 
be deemed most effectual for preventing those abuses in 
future. 

I have only to add, that, exclusive of the distress 
which unfortunate individuals sustain by these practices, 
I am informed by the principal officers commanding 
near the hues, that their parties are thereby often 
endangered, and the public service essentially injured. 

I have the honor to be, with the highest respect, your 
Excellency's most obedient servant, 

GEO. CLINTON. 
His Excellency, Governor Livingston. 



186 CORRESPONDENCE OF THE NEW JERSEY [1779. 

Resolution of the New York Legislature, enclosed in 
the foregoing. 

State of New York, in Assembly, October 1st, 1779. 

Resolved, if the honorable the Senate concur herein, 
that his Excellency, the Governor, be requested forth- 
with to issue his proclamation strictly forbidding all 
persons whomsoever to plunder the inhabitants of Long 
Island or of any other place in the power or possession 
of the enemy within this state, and also strictly forbid- 
ding all persons, subjects of this state, to plunder any 
inhabitant or inhabitants of any other of the United 
States within the power or possession of the enemy, 
and thereby declaring that if any person shall so offend 
against the law of nations and the rights of war, he, 
she, or they so offending shall be punished to the utmost 
rigor of the law. And that his Excellency be also 
requested to write to the executive powers of the states 
of Connecticut and New Jersey earnestly requesting 
them respectively to issue a similar proclamation, and 
that his Excellency request the several officers com- 
manding at or near the enemy's lines within this state 
to take and secure all such offenders and cause them to 
be sent to the board of commissioners for detecting and 
defeating conspiracies in this state. 

Ordered that Mr. Lott and Mr. Coe carry a copy of 
the said resolution to the honorable the Senate for con- 
currence. 

In Assembly, October 2d, 1779. 

A copy of a resolution of the honorable the Senate 
dehvered by Mr. Floyd, was read, to wit : " That the 



1779.] EXECUTIVE FROM 1776 TO 1786. 187 

Senate concur with this House in their resolutions of 
yesterday that his Excellency, the Governor, be re- 
quested to issue his proclamation for the purposes in 
that resolution mentioned." Ordered that Mr. F. 
Bancker and Mr. Paw^hng wait on his Excellency, the 
Governor, with a copy of the resolntion of this House, 
and of the concurrence of the honorable the Senate. 
A true copy from the minutes, 

JOHN McKESSON, Cl'k. 



From General Washington to Governor Livingston. 

Head Quarters, West Point, October 4th, 1779. 

Sir, — I have the honor to inclose your Excellency 
the copy of a resolution of Congress of the 26th Sept. 
by which you will perceive they expect the arrival of 
his Excellency, Count D'Estaing ; and that I am 
directed to pursue measures for co-operating with him, 
and to call upon the several states for such aid as shall 
appear to me necessary for this important purpose. In 
compUauce with these directions, I have made an esti- 
mate of the force of militia which will be indispensable 
in conjunction with the continental troops ; and have 
apportioned this force to the neighboring states, accord- 
ing to the best judgment I am able to form of their 
respective circumstances and abilities. The number 
I have to request from the state of New Jersey is 2000. 

In framing this estimate I assure your Excellency I 
have fixed upon the smallest number which appeared to 
me adequate to the exigency on account of the scanti- 



188 CORRESPONDENCE OF THE NEW JERSEY [1779. 

ness of our supplies ; and I thiuk it my duty explicitly 
to declare, that the co-operation will altogether depend 
on a full comphance with these requisitions. If I am 
so happy as to obtain the whole number demanded, a 
decisive stroke may be attempted against New York 
with a reasonable prospect of success. If the supply 
falls short, the disappointment will inevitably produce a 
failure in the undertaking. In this case Congress and 
my country must excuse a want of enterprise and suc- 
cess of which the want of means will have been the 
unfortunate cause. If the honor and interests of the 
states suffer from thence, the blame must not be imputed 
to me. I have taken the hberty to dwell on these points 
to induce a persuasion that I have not exaggerated in 
any degree the number of men really necessary, lest 
a supposition of this kind and a regard to the case of 
the people should relax the exertions of the state, and 
occasion a deficiency which would certainly be fatal to 
the views of Congress and to the expected co- 
operation. 

I am now to add to this request another equally 
essential, which is, that the most effectual and expedi- 
tious means be immediately adopted to have the men 
drawn out, properly equipped and embodied to serve for 
the term of three months from the time they join the 
army, unless the particular service on which they are 
drawn out should be sooner performed, I beg leave to 
recommend Pompton as a proper place for rendezvous. 
If the laws of the state now in existence, or the powers 
vested in your Excellency, are not competent to these 



1779.] EXECUTIVE FROM 1776 TO 1786. 189 

objects, permit me to entreat that tlie legislature may be 
called together without loss of time, and that jou will 
be pleased to employ your influence to procure laws for 
the purpose, framed on such principles as will procure 
an instant and certain execution. 

There are other objects which I beg leave at the 
same time to recommend to the most zealous and 
serious attention of the state. These are the making 
every exertion to promote the supplies of the army, in 
provisions, particularly in the article of flour, and to 
faciUtate the transportation in general of necessaries for 
the use of the army. Our prospects with respect to 
flour are to the last degree embarrassing. We are 
already distressed, but when we come to increase the 
demand by so large an addition of numbers we may 
expect to be obliged to disband the troops for want of 
subsistence, unless the utmost care and energy of the 
different Legislatures are exerted. The difficulties 
daily experienced on the score of transportation justify 
the equal apprehensions on that account, without a 
similar attention to this part of the public service. 

These difficulties were sufficient to deter me from 
the plan I mean to pursue, was I not convinced that the 
magnitude of the object will call forth all the vigor of 
the states, and inspire the people with a disposition to 
second the plans of their governors, and give efficacy 
to the measures they adopt. I doubt not our resources 
will be found fully adequate to the undertaking, if they 
are properly exerted, and when I consider the delicacy of 
the crisis, and the importance of the objects to be ob- 



190 CORRESPONDENCE OF THE NEW JERSEY [1779. 

tained, I cannot doubt that this will be the case. On 
one side, the reputation of our councils and of our arms, 
and an immediate removal of the war present them- 
selves. On the other, disgrace and disappointment, 
an accumulation of expenses, loss of credit with our 
allies, and with the world ; loss of confidence in our- 
selves ; the exhausting of our magazine and resources ; 
the precipitated decay of our currency ; and the con- 
tinuance of the war. Nor will these evils be confined 
to ourselves ; our allies must share in them, and suffer 
the mortification of having accomplished nothing to 
compensate for withdrawing their operations from a 
quarter where they had right to expect success, and for 
exposing their own possessions to hazard in a fruitless 
attempt to rescue ours. 

From the accounts received we are hourly to look 
for the appearance of the French squadron on the 
coast. 

The emergency is pressing, and all our measures 
should be attended with suitable expedition. 

Every moment is of infinite value. 

With the most perfect rehance on your Excellency's 
exertions and those of the state, and with the greatest 
respect and esteem, 

I have the honor to be your Excellency's most ob't 
and li'ble servant, 

G« WASHINGTON. 
His Ex<;ellencv, Gov'r Livingston. 



1779.] EXECUTIVE FROM 1776 TO 1786. 191 

From Willia?n H. Houston to Governor Livingston . 

Philadelphia, October 5th, 1779. 

Sir, — I am sorry that it has not been in my power 
to command as much time as I should have wished to 
employ in giving a distinct account to the legislature of 
the most material occurrences in the progress of busi- 
ness since I came to Congress. It is certainly the duty 
of every person in pubHc trust to make those from 
whom he derives his appointment acquainted with the 
manner in which he executes it, that they may be able 
to decide how far he fulfils or deceives their expecta- 
tations, and to form at any time, a clear estimate of his 
character. Next to want of fidelity, I look upon the 
neglect of giving due information to his constituents, 
the greatest crime in a public man. 

The principal intention of this is to point at a ques- 
tion which, from accidental circumstances, has acquired 
a magnitude and importance above what, simply con- 
sidered, it was entitled to. A question which has ex- 
cited much inveteracy and ill-blood in Congress, and 
not a few speculations and suspicions abroad. I mean 
the recall or rather the super-session of Mr, Arthur Lee, 
Commissioner of the United States at the Court of 
Madrid. I have carefully read over the papers and 
attended to every feasible means of unbiased informa- 
tion relative to this question, and I think I have done 
it with a temper divested of prejudice. The result is 
this ; I take Mr. Arthur Lee to be a man of a jealous, 
suspecting, difficult disposition ; trusty, capable and 



192 CORRESPONDENCE OF THE NEW JERSEY [1779. 

industrious. Indefatigable above others in procuring 
and transmitting intelligence ; accurate and frugal in 
expenses and money matters ; simple, severe, and repub- 
lican in his manners, so much so, as to be thought by 
many sour and inimical. This I take to be his char- 
acter; and in many essentials I am not afraid to call 
him equal to any person Congress ever employed in a 
similar capacity in Europe. The story hawked about 
that his indiscretions prevented the Court of Spain 
from treating with him, I cannot think believed by 
those who propagate it, as that conduct in the Spanish 
ministry is ascribable to different reasons which must 
strike every person at once who has the least know- 
ledge of the state of matters as they respected that 
power. But admitting he was the best qualified and 
most meritorious man on earth, is it not my duty to vote 
for removing him, when the funds of Congress, are 
absolutely wasted, and the public business not only 
retarded but stopped by unavailing altercations concern- 
ing an individual I When a general offers up a forlorn 
hope to save an army, the alternative is dreadful ; but 
the principle is defensible and the practice of it often 
necessary. I confess that in a republic, where appro- 
bation, honor, and praise, more than money and emolu- 
ments, are the reward of faithful services, such things 
ought to be admitted with reluctance and caution ; yet 
still they may not be always avoidable. But further, 
should it turn out to be a fact, that France was doubt- 
ful of him, and that Spain hesitated, it mattered not 
how good a man he was, one every way inferior, if 



1779.] EXECUTIVE FROM 1776 TO 1786. 193 

free from such exception, would have been preferable for 
the purpose of treating. The real cause of delay being 
now removed, it is to be hoped the gentleman who 
succeeds Mr. Lee will be successful. As I would ever 
wish to be simply just, but at the same time to do what 
is best, all things considered, I have no other request 
than that this state of facts may be remembered another 
day, when time will throw light upon what is now dark 
prejudice will be extinct, and the means of judging 
fairly will come within the reach of all. Into what 
course of conduct, or to what length of crimination, 
resentment may impel this unfortunate man, I am ex- 
cused from surmising. Whether, as many have done^ 
he will adhere to the part he has taken in spite of what 
he may think ill-treatment ; or whether, as many have 
also done, he will transfer himself to a situation where 
he will expect more attention, does not belong imme- 
diately to the present decision ; at least, I have taken 
the hberty to throw it out of the balance. At all 
events I am happy this troublesome affair is ended, and 
I hope it will never rise up to disturb the counsels ot 
America more. Subjects of contention and animosity 
are retiring one after another, and unanimity reviving 
in Congress where it is so essentially necessary. Tri- 
fles have had their day, and too long a one it has been ; 
matters of moment have a claim to this, and that it may 
not only be longer but perpetual, I am persuaded is the 
ardent wish of every honest man. 

Upon reviewing what I have written, a suspicion 
occurs that the above representation may imply a re- 
13 



194 CORRESPONDENCE OF THE NEW JERSEY [1779. 

flection on the conduct of some of my colleagues, which 
is far from my meaning, as it would be repugnant to 
justice. The time is not the same, other circumstances 
also disagree ; on the contrary, I must declare that I 
think their situation hard and undeserved. The whole 
train of the transaction I can trace minutely. To the 
quarter from whence the accusations have originated, 
the motives which inspired them and the instruments 
which have been employed for their circulation, I am 
not a stranger, nor am I surprised at anything thus far. 
But that their fellow-citizens should entertain impres- 
sions unfavorable to those they once thought well of 
and not call for an investigation of their conduct, or 
suspend their opinions till an explanation should be 
had, may p^iaps be a matter of some discouragement. 
If the gentlemen know what is alledged to their charge, 
I am astonished they do not apply for an opportunity of 
justification. Certainly if I should ever be of import- 
ance enough to be found fault with, I should expect the 
liberty of explaining facts and motives ; after that it is 
the part of an honest man to submit in silence to the 
judgment of those who have a right to [)ass upon his 
conduct. 

I enclose sundry papers marked from number 1 to 5. 
which I have met with since I came to this place, and 
which I have copied for the sight of such gentlemen of 
the legislature as may think it worth their trouble to 
read them. They relate to a matter which was before 
the legislature at their last sitting previous to the pres- 
ent. One, if not more of them, is on the files of the 



1779.] EXECUTIVE FROM 1776 TO 1786. 195 

Assembly, Tliej may be of use on some future occa- 
sion, but my principal object in copying them is to 
communicate the noble and dignified sentiments of the 
commander-in-chief, and to give some idea of the diffi- 
culties he has to encounter. If ever any man deserved 
gratitude and confidence he does, and the more espe- 
cially as his modesty will never allow him to be sated 
with the former, nor his goodness of lieart to abuse the 
latter. His letter marked No. 2, is an example in its 
kind. 

It is necessary that I give you the trouble conmumi- 
cating to the House the substance of this lengthened 
letter. I have no idea they will have patience to go 
over the whole. 

I am, with due respect, your obed't and h'mble 
servant, 

WILLIAM H. HOUSTON. 



Proceedings of the Legislature of Neiv York. 

«tate of New York, in Assembly, Oct. 22, 1779. 

A letter from the legislature of the state of New 
Jersey, dated the 29tii September last, to the legislature 
of this state, proposing a general regulation and limita- 
tion of prices to be taken for every kind and article of 
labor, manufacture and trade, was read. 

Ordered, that the said letter be committed to a Com- 
mittee of the whole House, 

State of New York, in Assembly, Oct. 29, 1779. 
Mr. Gordon, from the Committee of the whole House, 



196 CORRESPONDENCE OF THE NEW JERSEY [1779. 

to whom was committed the letter from the legislature 
of the state of New Jersey, ot the 29th Sept. last, to 
the legislature of this state, proposing a general regula- 
tion of prices to be taken for every kind and article of 
labor, manufacture, and trade, reported that the said 
Committee had entered into certain resolutions, which 
being read, were agreed to by the House, and are as 
follows, (to wit :) 

Resolved, In case of concurrence by the honorable 
the Senate, that Mr. President and Mr. Speaker be di- 
rected to write to the delegates for this state in Congress 
transmitting to them a copy of the letter from the legis- 
lature of the state of New Jersey, of the 29th of Sept. 
last, upon the subject of a regulation of prices, and 
copies of the letter from the General Assembly of the 
state of Massachusetts Bay, of the 20th Sept. last, upon 
the same subject, and of the proceedings of the Senate 
and Assembly thereon, and in the name of the legisla- 
ture of this state, to instruct the said delegates earnestly 
to press, (either separately or in conjunction with the 
delegates of any other or others of the said United 
States,) Congress to pursue such measures as they shall 
in their wisdom judge proper for regulating the prices 
of produce, merchandize, and labor; and to assure 
Congress, that the legislature of this state will by every 
means in their power, carry into execution any other 
plan which the wisdom of Congress may devise for 
preventing the farther depreciation, and restoring the 
credit of the continental currency. 

Resolved, In case of such concurrence as aforesaid, 



1779.] EXECUTIVE FROM 1776 TO 1786. 197 

that his excellency, the Governor, and he is hereby 
requested, on receipt of any recommendation from 
Congress for the purpose of a regulation, immediately 
to convene the legislature. 

Resolved, In case of such concurrence as aforesaid, 
that Mr. President and Mr. Speaker write to his Excel- 
lency, the President of the Council, and the honorable 
the Speaker of the House of Assembly of the State of 
New Jersey, acknowledging the receipt of their afore- 
said letter, returning the congratulations therein con- 
tained, and inclosing them copies of these resolutions, 
and also copies of the said letter, from the General As- 
sembly of the state of Massachusetts Bay, and of the 
proceedings of the legislature thereon. 

Ordered, that Mr. Hardenburg and Mr. Othoudt 
carry a copy of the above resolutions to the Honorable 
the Senate. 

State of New York, in Assembly, Oct. 25, 1779. 
A copy of a resolution of the Honorable the Senate, 
delivered by Mr. Russell, was read, and is in the words 
following, (to wit:) 

Resolved, That this Senate do agree with the Hon- 
orable the Assembly in the several resolutions entered 
into by that Honorable House in consequence of the 
letter from the legislature of the State of New Jersey* 
of the 29th September last. 

True copies, 

JOHN McKESSON, Clerk. 



198 CORRESPONDENCE OF THENEVV JERSEY [1779. 

From the Legislature of Ntiv York to the Governor 
and Assembly of New Jersey^ transmitting the fore- 
going Proceedings. 

Kingston, October 25, 1779. 

Gentlemen, — We are directed by the legislature of 
this state, respectfully to acknowledge the receipt of, 
and return the congratulations contained in, your letter 
of the 29tli of September last. Not only the import- 
ance of the subject, but the attention due to the com- 
munication of a sister state, required that your letter 
should receive our most mature consideration. It was 
accordingly in each House committed to a Committee 
of the Whole, and the result was an instruction to our 
delegates earnestly to press Congress to recommend to 
the several states to pass laws regulating the price of 
produce, merchandize, and labor, and to assure Con- 
gress of the readiness of this state to comply with such 
recommendation ; and a request to the Governor imme- 
diately upon the receipt of such recommendation, to 
convene the legislature, as you will see from the en- 
closed copies of the resolutions which were passed on 
the occasion. 

During our present session we received a letter 
from the General Assembly of the state of Massachu- 
setts Bay upon the same subject, a copy whereof 
we also do ourselves the honor to transmit to you, 
together with copies of the proceedings of the Senate 
and Assembly thereon. 



1779.] EXECUTIVE FROM 1776 TO 1786. 199 

We are, gentlemen, with perfect esteem, your most 
ob't serv'ts, 

By order of the Senate, 

PIERRE VAN CORTLANDT, Pres't. 
By order of the Assembly, 

EVERT BANCKER, Speaker. 
His Excellency, Will. Livingston, Governor of the 
State of New Jersey, and the Hon. Caleb Camp, 
Speaker of the House of Assembly. 



Fro?n Isaac Collins to the Legislative Council. 

Trenton Printing Office, October 30tli, 1779. 

Gentlemen, — The clerk of the Council delivered to 
me yesterday a resolution of your hon. House, dated 
Trenton Council chamber, October 29th, 1779, requi- 
ring me immediately to inform the Council who the 
author of the publication inserted in the New Jersey 
Gazette, No. 96, under the signature of " Cincinnatus' 
is, and at whose request the same was published. 

Were I to comply with the requisition contained in 
this resolution, without the permission of the author of 
the piece alluded to, I conceive I should betray the trust 
reposed in me, and be far from acting as a faithful 
guardian of the liberty of the press. I may further 
say that I am entirely at a loss to conjecture upon what 
ground this requisition has been made ; for it is evident 
that the piece in question does not contain the most 
distant disrespectful allusion to your honorable body. 

For the above reasons, gentlemen, I find myself 



200 CORRESPONDENCE OF THE NEW JERSEY [1779. 

under the disagreeable necessity of declining to comply 
with your orders. In any other case not incompatible 
with good conscience or the welfare of my country, I 
shall think myself happy in having it in my power to 
obUge you. 

I am, gentlemen, yours very respectfully, 

ISAAC COLLINS. 
To the hon. Legislative Council of the state of N. J. 

House of Assembly, October 29th, 1779. 

The House of Assembly having taken into conside- 
ration the message from Council of yesterday by Mr. 
Talman relative to a certain ''inece'' published in the 
New Jersey Gazette, No. 96, signed " Cincinnatus'' 

Resolved, That this House do not concur in the 
resolution therein contained. 

Ordered, that Mr. Smock and Mr Neilson do wait 
on the Council and acquaint them therewith. 

By order of the House, 

M. EWING, Jr., Clerk. 



From William H. Houston to Governor Livingston. 

Philadelphia, November 12th, 1779. 
Sir, — In my last I was under a misconception relative 
to the embargo law of the state of Pennsylvania. I 
find that by a transient attention to it I accidentally 
mistook for an act a bill printed in the Pennsylvania 
Packet for public consideration, and which did not pass. 
The embargo now in operation here is not conditional 



1779.] EXECUTIVE FROM 1776 TO 1786. 201 

but absolute as ours. It is my duty to notice the mis- 
take, lest it should be instrumental in giving impressions 
unfavorable and unjust. 

Every day brings me fresh uneasiness respecting the 
supply of the general treasury. The expectation of 
Count D'Estaing's visiiing our coasts in this quarter 
has created a flood of expense, and the means of de- 
fraying it are narrowing fast. If the taxes for the present 
year are not fully and punctually paid in, every thing 
but hope holds up discouraging prospects. All the states 
must see the necessity of exertion, and I dare believe 
New Jersey will not be behind the foremost. The 
close of this campaign is set down for the era of reform- 
ation in the per centage departments, to say no more, 
and especially if we are so fortunate as to carry 
through a limitation of prices. Afterwards, it is to be 
confided, expenditures will be much less. 

As to the payment of the taxes for 1780, 1 mentioned 
in my last that it was hardly to be imagined any 
monthly assessment or collection could be made in our 
state, though if it were practicable it has its advantages. 
It is rather to be supposed that the legislature will lay 
the amount in two or three payments, and collect the 
taxes for support of government along with one or all 
of them. I have before mentioned the case of two 
payments. If three are preferred, being one million 
twelve thousand five hundred pounds, each payment, 
they come, at equal intervals, the first of February, 
May and August. The legislature may also probably 
consider whether taxes are not more easily paid in the 



202 CORRESPONDENCE OF THE NEW JERSEY [1779. 

spring than in the summer, and lay more at that season. 
There would also be another advantage in this policy, 
the money will probably be more wanted at the time 
these taxes are calculated to begin than towards the 
middle or latter end of the year. 

There is one clear and obvious principle on which 
all taxation ought to be rested, and if it could be laid 
as a ground-w ork, and extend through our tax laws, 
payment would not only be practicable but light and 
easy ; it is that every man be called upon to pay in 
exact proportion to his ability, all things considered. 
The practice of this principle, 1 confess, can never be 
obtained precisely, but it is a point of perfection to 
which laws may be directed, and to which they may 
continually more and more verge. The nearer an 
assessment approximates to this, the more just it is. 
Why is it not proper to estimate every part of the 
whole aggregate estate, be the kind of property what it 
may, according as it is of use and emolument to the 
owner or possessor, and all acquisitions currently arising 
from advantages and opportunities I This maxim is 
practiced upon in some of the states, and comprehended 
in the short description of taxing a man according to 
his family. The whole debt of the Union does not 
amount to one hundred dollars a head, and if set off 
on the scale of strict justice would not perhaps to the 
poor be more than the price of three or four days work 
on a taxable. Our state, it would seem, has always 
been in the custom of taxing lands too deeply, and 
there are many kinds of property and sources of 



1779.] EXECUTIVE FROM 1776 TO 1786. 203 

wealth and income which have never paid any thing. 
I enclose for the perusal of such as are curious, and 
have not seen it, the case of the sloop Active, which 
has produced a dispute between Congress and the state 
of Pennsylvania. The nature of this case will be 
plainly collected from the printed proceedings of the 
court of Admiralty before which it was tried. I men- 
tion what further is necessary to give an adequate idea 
of the cause of diiference. In the court of Admiralty 
the jury gave one fourth to the insurgents and three 
fourths to the libellant, and another cruiser in sight at 
the time of the capture. From the decision, which is 
said to be wholly on matter of fact, the insurgents 
appealed. The court of Appeals decreed the whole to 
them, and directed the Judge of Admiralty of the state 
of Pennsylvania to see their sentence executed. The 
Judge refused, as the law by which the maritime court 
is established in that state allows an appeal on matters 
of law only, and does not permit the facts found by a 
jury to be re-examined. Much law ammunition has 
been spent on the occasion, and the diiference is not 
yet adjusted. Certain it is that by the resolutions of 
Congress of 1775, an admiralty jurisdiction say, the 
facts shall be estabUshed by a jury. Lawyers say there 
is this distinction between trials by jury and trials 
by witnesses, that in the former case the facts found 
are not re-examined, in the latter they are. Our hw 
for erecting a court of Admiralty, allows an appeal in 
all cases whatsoever, but it must be acknowledged that 
an appeal on matter of fact from the verdict of a jury 



204 CORRESPONDENCE OF THE NEW JERSEY [1779. 

has not a good sound. And yet juries are too often 
worse qualified to decide in maritime causes than any 
other. 

You have also a report of the commissioners ap- 
pointed by General Washington in April last to settle a 
course for the exchange of prisoners with the commis- 
sioners of General Clinton. It has been already pub- 
lished in newspapers. It is with pleasure I also send 
an extract from the general orders of the commander- 
in-chief of 29th July last. The virtues of this amiable 
man as a citizen are no less conspicuous than his spirit 
and perseverance as a soldier. To-morrow will be 
published, by order of Congress, the news from the 
southward. You will hear it with concern. The 
raising of the seige of Savannah is not so much to be 
regretted in itself as the consequent exposure of a large 
extent of country, the inhabitants of which must una- 
voidably suifer before succour can arrive to them. Let 
ns however remember what has so often happened, that 
confidence is the road to disappointment, and where our 
prospects are least promising from thence success often 
comes. Nesquam desperandum est de Republica. 

I am, sir, with due regard, your obed't h'ble servant, 
WILLIAM H. HOUSTON. 



From the Delegates in Congress to Governor Livingston. 

Philadelphia, November 22d, 1779. 

Sir, — Enclosed you have the result of the delibera- 
tions of Congress on the representation of the 7th 



1779.] EXECUTIVE FROM 1776 TO 1786. 205 

ultimo respecting a general limitation of prices. We 
beg leave to say that with attention to the interests of 
the union in general and the state in particular, and also 
to the convenience of the legislature, we have left no 
means untried to give success and dispatch to the 
business. The legislature, we flatter ourselves, will be 
disposed to overlook anj defects in the plan recom- 
mended by Congress compared with the scope and 
tenor of their representation, when they reflect that 
different states as well as individuals, however they may 
coincide in the main substance of a measure, vary often 
in their ideas on particular parts, and also when they 
are informed that what we have now the pleasure to 
transmit has passed with a great degree of unanimity. 
For the sake of this and greater expedition, policy dic- 
tated to concede a little. From appearances we think 
ourselves justified to say that the measure recommended 
will in all probability be universally adopted throughout 
the union. The date of commencement is more distant 
than could have been wished, but when the remoteness 
of some of the states is considered, as also that many 
of the legislatures are not sitting, and that the limita- 
tions ought to take place at the same time every where, 
it could not well be gainsayed. Other arguments also 
have been urged, tending to shew that this will give 
fuller efficacy to the measure, by giving people an 
opportunity to provide against losses and disappoint- 
ments to their essential prejudice. The ratio of prices 
to those current formerly, though by many thought too 
large, is set at a limit which we hope will produce an 



206 CORRESPONDENCE OF THE NEW JERSEY [1779. 

easy turn to the tide of depreciation, and make a 
further reduction in due time more natural and prac- 
ticable. 

We have the honor to be, with all respect, your 
obed't h'ble servants, 

JNO. WITHERSPOON, 

NATH. SCUDDER, 

JOHN FELL, 

WILLIAM H. HOUSTON. 



I/. 



From General Washington to Govei'nor Livingston. 

Head Quarters, Morristown Dec. 21st, 1779. 

giR^ — Notwithstanding the enemy have been for 
some time past making demonstrations of sending 
detachments from New York, they still continue there 
with their whole collected force. On our part, we have 
lately been obliged to maintain a considerable body of 
troops to the southward, and a part of those which 
remain are daily leaving us from the expiration of their 
terms of service. 

These and many other reasons that must occur to 
your Excellency will point out the possibiUty that Sir 
Henry Clinton may be induced shortly to undertake an 
operation in this state, and show the propriety of our 
using every precaution to defeat his attempts. The 
best way indeed to prevent his undertaking any thing, 
is to be well prepared to receive him. On this principle 
I am to intreat that a plan may be concerted without 
loss of time to call otit the whole militia of the state in 



1780.] EXECUTIVE FROM 1776 TO 1786. 207 

the speediest manner, should the event I have mentioned 
take place. It will also be requisite that they should 
come provided each man with ten days' or a fortnight's 
provisions, to be paid for by the public at the current 
value. 

The state of our magazines makes this indispensible, 
without which the men would be an incumberance 
rather than an assistance. 

As soon as the necessary arrangements are made, I 
shall be glad to be informed of them, that I may know 
what correspondent measures are to be taken on my 
part. 

Conventional signals to convey the alarm throughout 
the state must be one essential part of the plan, and 
places of rendezvous another. 

Your Excellency I am persuaded will see the neces- 
sity of the measure, which I have now the honor to 
propose, and will give it all the support in your power. 

I have the honor to be, with perfect respect and 
esteem, your Excellency's most ob'tserv't, 

G« WASHINGTON. 
His Excellency, Gov'r Livingston. 



i 



From General Washingto7i to Governor Livingston. 

Head Quarters, Morristown, February 20th, 1780. 

Sir, — Your Excellency will have received, I make 

no doubt, a copy of an act of Congress of the 9th 

instant, ascertaining the quotas of non-commissioned 

officers and privates, to be furnished by the respective 



208 CORRESPONDENCE OF THE NEW JERSEY [1780. 

States for the ensuing campaign, and directing all the 
men in any of the additional corps, the guards, artillery, 
and horse, and the regimented artificers in the depart- 
ments of the duarter-Master-General, and the Commis- 
sary-General of military stores, as well as those of the 
battalions in the state lines, whose terms of service do 
not expire before the last of September next, to be 
counted as part of the quotas of the states to which 
they respectively belong. 

The quota of the state of New Jersey is fixed at 
1620, and I have now the honor to inclose your Excel- 
lency a special return of the non-commissioned officers 
and privates in the third battahon, and of those belong- 
ing to her in Lamb's artillery, Spencer and Hay's regi- 
ments. Major Gibb's corps of guards, artillery, artifi- 
cers, designating in a particular manner, the proportion 
engaged for the war and by monthly columns, the pe- 
riods when and in what proportion the services of the 
rest will expire. Your Excellency will observe by the 
act, that the men whose engagements expire before the 
last of September, as I have already taken the liberty 
to mention, are not to be counted as part of the 1620 
and therefore, according to the return inclosed, the 
deficiency to be raised is 547. There are however, 
one or two corps besides these I have mentioned, not 
acting immediately with this part of the army, in which 
there may be some men belonging to this state, and I 
consider it as an unlucky circumstance, that I have not 
such return of them in my possession as will ascertain 
the point and the credit to which the state may|be enti- 
tled in consequence. 



1780.] EXECUTIVE FROM 1776 TO 1786. 209 

Major Lee's corps is the one in which it is most 
likely that there are some men under his discipline, and 
I have written to him or the commanding officer of his 
corps, to furnish your Excellency, without delay, with a 
particular state of them. If it should be the case, I 
also expect returns of one or two more other corps in 
the course of a few days, when if there are any men 
in them belonging to the state, I shall take the earliest 
occasion to communicate it and their number. I have 
thought it more advisable to transmit the present return 
than to delay it till those of every little detached corps 
could be collected, as the wants of those, admitting there 
should be a few men belonging to the state in some of 
them, can make no material difference with respect to 
the deficiency to be levied : and as the postponing the 
business on that account would interfere essentially with 
the views of Congress, and indeed entirely defeat them, 
as to the time assigned for the recruits taking the field. 
At any rate this must be found too short for those of 
those of the more remote states, especially where their 
legislatures are to be convened. I would observe, 
before I conclude, that this return bears the fullest num- 
ber of men under every description that the state can 
have in her three battalions, and the other corps which 
it comprehends; and they would most probably be 
found, if an actual inspection could take place, to fall a 
good deal short of the complement, as there is always 
a material difference between an army on paper, and 
its real efficient strength. 

A comparative view between the total of an army as 
14 



210 CORRESPONDENCE OF THE NEW JERSEY [1780. 

borne upon every general return and the . column of 
present fit for duty and the absentees that can be satis- 
factorily accounted for, demonstrates this beyond 
question. 

I have the honor to be with the highest respect and 
esteem, your Excellency's most obed't serv't. 

GO WASHINGTON. 
His Excellency, Governor Livingston. 



From Chief Justice Symmes to Governor Livingston. 

Morristown, February 14th, 1780. 

Sir, — I beg leave to trouble your Excellency, and the 
honorable gentlemen of the legislative Council of the 
state, with a subject which has for some time past 
given me much concern. 

AppUcation has been made to me, as a magistrate of 
the state of New Jersey, for a redress of wrongs by 
soldiers in the continental army, from this and one other 
state, who say that they are aggrieved by being denied 
a discharge, after a term of three years, for which they 
had enlisted, had expired. And that they are obHged, 
with some aggravating circumstances, to continue 
yet in the service, which they consider as very discour- 
aging and oppressive. 

I would by no means, sir, be understood as insinua- 
ting anything to the prejudice of the gentlemen officers 
of the Jersey or any other line in the American army; 
no man can be more ready than I am to allow them 
the merit which they are so justly entitled to from 



1780.] EXECUTIVE FROM 1776 TO 1786. 211 

every citizen of the United States. But, sir, I must 
say, and am sorry for the occasion, that I beUeve that 
there is some misunderstanding between the officers 
and their men, which has unhappily worked itself into 
the camp, by one means or other. I believe this to be 
one, viz : as numbers of the privates now in the service 
were not enlisted by any one officer at this time belong- 
ing to the lines, the officer (who enlisted the soldier) 
upon his resignation or discharge, has on oath turned 
over the soldier to the officer who succeeded him, as 
having enhsted during the war ; the present officer be- 
lieves it to be the case, and is now hardly persuaded 
that the fact is otherwise. 

I know not, sir, what to do in the affair, the matter 
is of the utmost delicacy; for me to interfere at all may 
be attended with some bad consequences. It would 
seem to call in question that superiority of the officer 
over the soldier which is vital in an army. To reject 
the complaint of the soldier altogether would be un- 
doubtedly a denial of that justice which is the right of 
every subject, viz., to be heard with respect to the 
merits of his cause, where the magistrate is allowed to 
have jurisdiction. I am warranted to say, sir, that so 
great is the discontent amongst some of the troops, 
arising from this source, that many have already de- 
serted, and others say pubhcly in the streets that they 
will go over to the enemy, if they are denied that 
justice which is their due. 

I beg leave only to add, that it is my full belief that 
the matter is by no means unworthy the attention of 



212 CORRESPONDENCE OF THE NEW JERSEY [17S0. 

jour honorable House; but that it calls iu au eminent 
manner for the speedy direction and inquiry of the 
legislature of the state. 

I have the honor to be, sir, your Excellency's most 
respectful and deroted humble servant, 

JOHN CLEVES SYMMES. 

His Excellencv. Governor Livingston. 



From Abraha??i Clark to Caieh Camp, Speaker of the 

Assembly. 

Philadelphia, February 7, 17S0. 

Sir. — The convention for regulating prices, have 
adjourned till April, and I fear the atttempt will prove 
abortive. Virg:inia seems to hang back ; no members 
have attended from thence, and as far as I can learn 
none have been appointed, and their legislature stands 
adjourned till May. I shudder at the prospect before 
us ; a vigorous war to prosecute, while our monev. 
reduced almost to nothing, is still depreciating with 
rapidity. The current exchange here between hard 
money and paper is from 4-5 lo oO for one. In the 
market a paper dollar is estimated at present at one 
penny, and will soon be less than a half-penny in all 
probability. 

Congress have now under consideration the appor- 
tionment of supphes for the army, to be required of each 
state the present year. Our quota at present stands at 
18,000 hundred weight of beef or pork, 10,000 barrels 
of flour, 3,758 bushels of salt, 3,500 tons of hay, 30,000 



its:." ixEcrrm: f»om 1776 r; 1~tt 21S 



be^'lT-L 


cofn 1- •_ 


nrm 


r - 



__T ■ 


_ ur 


-i: saV 


^ ■*. . . 


.7 5 


-- -- J 


Z^ -4r-'? 




" -iZ 


rre 1 : 




, 



aji'i me poce:* m the seT^r^ stale*. ; 

- seasons in them : : i 

. The salt. I fear, 

^ ' - . ' ~ zr s^t"?. bn.T ?s the 

se: at 5 •i'^uar^, i iire not renee h to oar state. spectauT 



r - : i prices : b : - v^ ^ ^ — : i 
than anv ocher article I think w^ «aT e\«?baD£e pro- 
visions for ii. t create: , '"ate 
contracts: orperhapts bj pgonx>ring the ms^ :v of 
iron on pabfic accoonL ^«^e mav - - 
sail in exchange for iron, and s^^ • : . -i 
case our k^lamre ^aB desire to b- ^ 
ins the sak. bj taking npon them the sap - . ^ -:hi?r 



214 CORRESPONDENCE OF THE NEW JERSEY [1780. 

articles equivalent in value as estimated, by signifying 
their pleasure thereon, I am persuaded the matter can 
be effected. 

Thus far I had wrote before Congress took up the 
business of supplies this day. They had before gone 
through the quotas, and now took into consideration 
the prices as reported by the Committee, and have 
agreed to the price of flour as above mentioned ; the 
next under consideration was the price of beef, this is 
not finished, but will I beheve pass agreeably to report, 
many of us would be wilHng to alter some articles, did 
we not see that it would derange all we had before 
done without any material advantage, so that the prices 
I have mentioned, though only as reported from a Com- 
mittee from each state, will, I believe, be agreed to. 
Should any material alteration take place so as to effect 
our state, we shall attempt a reconsideration of quotas. 

I am, with all due respects to the General Assembly, 
your obedient and humble servant, 

ABRA. CLARK. 

Caleb Camp, Esq., Speaker. 



From General Washington to Governor Livingston. 

Head Quarters, Morristown, February 26th, 1780. 

Dear Sir, — I was last night honored with your 
Excellency's letter of the 22d. I had on the 20th 
transmitted you as accurate a return as could then be 
obtained of the number of men serving in the three 
battalions of the state, and in the additional corps. I 



1780.] EXECUTIVE FROM 1776 TO 1786. 215 

have since received a return of Major Lee's corps 
dated the 20th December last, in which I find fifty non- 
commissioned officers and privates belonging to the 
state. That number is therefore to be deducted from 
the deficiency struck in my letter of the 20th. 

I have the honor to be, with the greatest esteem, 
your Excellency's most ob't serv't, 

GO WASHINGTON. 
His Excellency, Governor Livingston. 



From Samuel Huntington, President of Congress, to 
Governor Livingston. 

Philadelphia, March 20th, 1780. 

Sir, — Your Excellency will receive herewith en- 
closed an act of Congress of the 18th instant calling 
upon the several states to bring in the continental 
currency by monthly taxes or otherwise, as shall best 
suit their respective circumstances, in proportion to the 
quotas assigned to each state, by the resolution of the 
7th of October 1779, and making provision for other 
bills to be issued in lieu thereof under the regulations 
and restrictions mentioned in the act. 

This act is the result of much labor and deliberation* 
as the happiest expedient that could be adopted to 
extricate these states from the embarrassments of a 
fluctuating medium, and at the same time in some 
measure afford the necessary means for supporting the 
ensuing campaign. 

You will readily perceive the importance of this 



216 CORRESPONDENCE OF THE NEW JERSEY [1780. 

measure and the indispensable necessity of unanimity 
in the states in conforming thereto. It is requested 
that there may be no delay in taking this act under 
consideration, and that the Assembly, if not sitting, 
may be convened as soon as possible for that purpose, 
and that the laws that may be enacted in pursuance 
thereof be transmitted to Congress without delay. 
The new bills will be struck under the direction of the 
board of Treasury and sent to the several states in due 
proportion. You have also enclosed an act of Con- 
gress of this day recommending the revision of such 
laws as may have been passed making the continental 
bills a tender in discharge of debts, &c. 

I have the honor to be, with every sentiment of 
esteem and respect, your Excellency's humble servant, 

SAM. HUNTINGTON, Pres. 
His Excellency, Governor Livingston. 



From Willmm H. Houston to Governor Livingston. 

Philadelphia, May 22d, 1780. 
Sir, — I have the honour to enclose for the use of the 
Legislature a Boston paper of the 8th inst. which I 
have this day received by post, containing the act of 
the legislature of the state of Massachusetts bay on the 
proceedings of the 18th March last relative to finance. 
I think it my duty to communicate every thing on this 
subject which comes to my hands, as to me the matter 
appears of the most indispensable importance ; but 
shall not detain further upon it, having already explained 



1730.] executivt: from 1776 to 17S6. -217 

myself pretrv fallv. I onlv bes leave to observe that if 
I had not thousht the interest of the state deeply con- 
cerned. I should not have been so esphcit, especially 
since I have heard that a variety of sentiments prevails 
among those who are cenainly capable of judging. 
This has aroused my caution, but upon a careful review 
of the whole subject, and examination ox all I have 
read and heard. I must still venture to say that some- 
thing is necessarv to be done, and that no expedient 
appears to me so promising and advisable, every cir- 
cumstance considered, as the one now in question. 
By communicating the several acts as I receive them. 
I do not expect that the Legislature will be so much 
influenced by example as assisted in framing a law on 
the subject. It may indeed be matter of encourage- 
ment that the measure is elsewhere adopted, but as one 
state cannot be injured bv adopting it before another, 
but rather the contrary, there can be no objection to 
take early rank in this instance. 

I have heard it alledged that these resolutions involve 
a breach of faith. Though no such thing appear to 
me, yet if bv anv construction it is inferred, it will 
probably operate to induce the Legislature to leave out 
the comparison between specie and the present biUs. 
and retain only that between the latter and the new 
bills to be emitted. How far this will be an ettectuai 
provision I pretend not to determine, the consequences 
may be examined, and it is of the highest moment to 
weigh them. 

Lest it should escape the recollection of the Legisla- 



218 CORRESPONDENCE OF THE NEW JERSEY [1780. 

ture, I take the liberty to mention tiiat tlie embargo act 
continued the 25th of December last in consequence of 
a recommendation of Congress of the 15th of the 
same month was limited to the first of April last. The 
expected events of this campaign, the present state 
of provisions, the prospects of the coming crop, far 
from being so favorable as could be wished, all conspire 
to urge the propriety of reviving and continuing that 
act. The matter was lately agitated in Congress, but 
as no instance of exportation was known, except from 
Delaware, and it was said the embargo was in force in 
the other states, a resolution was extended no farther 
than Delaware. We did not mention New Jersey, 
because there was no doubt the Legislature on advert- 
ing to the circumstances above mentioned would take 
the necessary measures. 

The state of Pennsylvania has applied to Congress 
for direction with respect to the propriety of receiving 
the certificates given in the staff departments in the 
payment of taxes. As I see the highest probability the 
measure will be approved and recommended, I take the 
liberty to apprize the Legislature. I see no prospect oj 
any other answer to the address and representation oJ 
the 1 5th of March last, and am of opinion that time 
need not be lost in waiting to hear from Congress. Nc 
means in the power of the delegates of the state have 
been omitted to obtain some other mode of discharging 
the debts due to the inhabitants, and avoiding the neces- 
sity of resorting to this expedient, but without effect. 

The proceedings of Saturday last you have ere now 



1780.] EXECUTIVE FROM 1776 TO 1786. 219 

received. I doubt not the President has suggested the 
propriety of secresy, for though these things are noising 
abroad, they are surmises without information. I speak 
particularly of the contents of the letter. The occa- 
sion is highly interesting, and the improvement of it 
may be attended with the most happy consequences. 

I have the honour to be your Excellency's most obe- 
dient and humble servant, 

WILLIAM H. HOUSTON. 



From General Washington to Governor Livingston. 

Head Quarters, Morristown, June 2d, 1780. 
Sir, — By the letter from the honorable the committee 
of Congress at Morristown, which this accompanies, 
your Excellency will find that those gentlemen and 
myself after maturely considering the matter, deem it 
essential to the success of the measures in contempla- 
tion to be carried on against the enemy, to call on 
the states for certain aids of militia in addition to the 
requisitions for men already made ; and that they 
should be at the places of rendezvous appointed by me^ 
by the 15th day of next month. The aid requested in 
this instance of your state is founded on a principle of 
appointment common to all the states from New Hamp- 
shire to Maryland inclusive (the others on account of 
their distance and the operations in the southern quar- 
ter, not being now called on,) and is stated at nine 
hundred and forty five, rank and file. This number of 
militia, well armed and equipped in every other respect 



220 CORRESPONDENCE OF THE NEW JERSEY [1780. 

for the field in the best manner circumstances will admit, 
under proper officers, I wish to be at Morristown at the 
time mentioned by the committee, which appears to me 
a suitable place for their rendezvous, in the first 
instance, and from whence they will proceed on my 
orders as occasion may require. It will also be mate- 
rial, on account of disciplining and organizing the men, 
as well as on account of pubhc economy, that they 
should be formed into full regiments. If this is not 
done, it will render our arrangements extremely difficult 
and irregular, and will add, by greatly increasing the 
number of officers, very considerably to the public 
expense. I would beg leave to observe that I think the 
whole number of militia requested from your state 
should be comprised in two regiments. 

This additional aid will not, I trust and earnestly 
entreat, impede in the smallest degree the filling up the 
regiments of the state by drafts to their full complement 
as requested by the honorable the committee in their 
letters of the 25th ultimo. 

This is a point of such great importance, so abso- 
lutely essential to give the least prospect of success to 
our operations, and indeed on which they depend, that I 
could not forbear mentioning it. If the regiments are 
completed by drafts, it is possible our demand for militia 
may be a good deal diminished, but this must be gov- 
erned by events, and therefore for objects so very inter- 
esting, so important as those to which w^e at present 
look, we should provide whatever may be possibly 
requisite. 



1780.] EXECUTIVE FROM 1776 TO 1786. 221 

I have the honor to be, with great respect and 
esteem, your Excellency's most obe't and hum. serv't, 

G« WASHINGTON. 
His Excellency, Gov'r Livingston. 



From William H. Houston to Governor Livingston. 

Philadelphia, Sunday June 4th, 1780, ) 
12 o'clock at noon. \ 

Sir, — A Mr. William Finnic from Williamsburg, in 
Virginia, is just arrived in town, and brings the follow- 
ing intelligence. That when he was at Baltimore, in 
Maryland, on his way to this place, a number of letters 
came to sundry persons there, from Richmond, the 
capitol of Virginia, informing that Charlestown capitu- 
lated on the 12tli ultimo. The news is mentioned to 
come by an express from Governor Rutledge of South 
Carolina to Congress, who was ordered to call on his 
route and dehver dispatches to Governor Nash of North 
Carolina, and Governor Jefferson of Virginia. This is 
supposed to be the reason he has not yet reached Phila- 
delphia. No particulars are mentioned. The specula- 
tors, whose riders travel day and night on such 
occasions, generally precede the publick expresses. 
By a letter of 31st ultimo from General Washington, I 
find the capture is credited at head quarters. What to 
say against report so confirmed I am at a loss. The 
probability certainly is against us. Nothing but official 
certainty remains to be expected. If the event has 
taken place we may hourly expect this, as the express 



^22 CORRESPONDENCE OF THE NEW JERSEY [1780. 

cannot be far off, unless some extraordinary accident 
has befallen him. I do not like to believe bad news, 
hut we ought to be prepared for it. 

The reflections which first present themselves are, 
that no greater stroke has befallen us since the com- 
mencement of the war, and none which has required 
more active, thorough exertions to recover and repair it, 
than this will. It is not said on what terms the garri- 
son capitulated, but in all likelihood they cannot be 
more favorable than prisoners of war. Their service is 
lost to us, probably for the campaign. The finances 
evidently mending, will be thrown aback, and without 
a speedy execution of the system of 18th March, per- 
haps return to wilder disorder than ever. No subject 
whatever requires more attention, for money will be 
more necessary than ever. The effect upon the army, 
as well as upon the people, will too probably be dispirit- 
ing, especially at first; but may be directly opposite, 
after a little reflection, if the publick movements can 
all be made to draw together, and no chasm or derange- 
ment happen before their thoughts and views have time 
to collect and accommodate themselves to the exigency. 
Bold councils are the best in precarious times. I 
would submit to the legislature whether if this intelli- 
gence turns out fact, it would not be best to vest in the 
Governor and Privy Council, or a greater quorum if 
more proper, powers suited to the cast of the occa- 
sion. The capture of Charlestown and the arrival 
of a French fleet, should it happen, both require it. 
The utmost reach of the powers of the state will be 



1780.] EXECUTIVE FROM 1776 TO 1786. 223 

necessary in a model which can be speedy and effective 
in execution, either to provide against great evils or to 
attempt great objects. The legislature of Pennsylvania 
which adjourned last Thursday, before this news ap- 
peared in any shape, considering the greatness of the 
crisis, empowered the Executive to proclaim and estab- 
lish martial /aw in case of necessity during the recess 
of the Assembly, for limited periods. The Assembly 
has adjourned to September next. A special council 
composed of members of both Houses might be more 
agreeable to many, but I say nothing of the form, 
only have taken the liberty to say thus much concern- 
ing the thing itself A correspondence between such 
body and the delegates in Congress for the state, might 
be of great use to the state, should the legislature be 
unanimous in adopting the measure so as to give it 
weight with the people at large. 

It also occurs that early and effectual attention ought 
to be paid to the state, and preparation of the mihtia. 
Great part of the enemy's troops will return to New 
York immediately on the reduction of Charlestown, 
though if they knew their true interest they would all 
leave New York and go to the southward. In the 
event of their coming back, their disposition to mischief 
is too well known to believe that they will be pacific 
toward New Jersey. It is not a far sought reflection 
that this disaster, though great, is not matter of des- 
pondence. Mortals see not futurities, and who can say 
that Heaven does not mean this to precede something 
more important to us than it is to the enemy. Things 
much more unexpected have happened. 



224 CORRESPONDENCE OF THE NEW JERSEY [1780. 

The enemy must commit themselves on the ocean 
before they can appear at New York. Perhaps it is 
best ; history and experience say, that young nations as 
well as men, are less able than those of riper age, to 
bear that prosperity which is not dashed with some 
sharpness of misfortune. These things fulfil the end of 
God's government, where partial evil is general good. 
We pity our suffering brethren, but no man despairs 
of the republick. 

I am your Excellency's very obedient servant, 

WILLIAM H. HOUSTON. 

From William H. Houston to Governor Livingston. 

Philadelphia, June 5th, ViSO. 

Sir, — You will receive enclosed two resolutions of 
Congress which have doubtless already gone from the 
President in the ordinary course of communication. 
But as papers sometimes miscarry, thought it not amiss 
to repeat them. That relative to deserters will certainly 
be of moment, should any French troops or the troops 
of any allied or co-operating power, ever be landed on 
the American shores for the purpose of giving assistance 
in the prosecution of the war. The laws relative to 
desertion will easily be extended to secure and return 
them. This is not only the duty of an ally, but it is 
our interest in many respects and no objection that I 
know of can be taken to it. 

The other, relative to the defence of the interior 
frontiers against the incursions of the savages is im- 



1780.] EXECUTIVE FROM 1776 TO 1786. 225 

portant to us. I understood, when lately at Trenton, 
that there was a bill before the legislature for embodying 
a number of militia to protect the upper settlements. 
That no hesitation may hereafter be made relative to 
the allowance of continental pay and rations it would 
be well to take the step New York has taken, and 
obtain the approbation and engagement of Congress 
or the commander-in-chief, — either will be sufficient. 
Every one must be convinced of the necessity of sup- 
porting the settlements over the mountain ; for if they 
are obliged to remove, double if not treble the number 
of men will be necessary to secure the country against 
impressions, and after all it will not be so eifectually 
done in this as in the other mode. 

The post established in Ulster will be of advantage 
in the general protection, and the legislature will be able 
to determine in what degree we may be benefited by 
it. In the resolutions of 4tli April last is mentioned the 
body of men to which this of the 1st inst refers. 

I have the honor to be, with due regard, your Excel- 
lency's very obedient h'ble servant, 

WILLIAM H. HOUSTON. 



From Ph. Schuyler, Chairman, S^c, to Gov. Livingston. 

In Committee of Congress, Morristovvn, June 12th, 1780. 

Sir, — We have the honor to enclose you a copy of 

a letter addressed to us by the commander-in-chief. 

The contents will advise you to what an alarming crisis 

our affairs are reduced. The General observes with 

13 



226 CORRESPONDENCE OF. THE NEW JERSEY [1780. 

great propriety that this committee "need no arguments 
to evince the danger." Indeed we do not, our own 
observations have led to the fullest conviction that 
unless the force stated in our second letter of the 25th 
wltimo is drawn into the field with celerity equal to the 
urgency of the occasion, the period which is to end our 
liberty and commence the most disgraceful state of 
slavery which human nature has ever experienced, is 
not far distant. But dark and gloomy as the prospect 
is, America has it in her power to dispel the cloud by 
those exertions of which she is abundantly capable, and 
to which it is her duty to rouse from every consideration 
which can affect the human heart 

We are most indubitably possessed of the means 
wherewith to expel the enemy from every part of the 
continent, but it requires a display of that virtue which 
distinguished the citizens of Rome when their state was, 
as ours now is, on the brink of ruin, and we trust 
Americans, impressed with a proper sense of the bless- 
ings of peace, liberty and independence, will follow the 
bright example, and evince to future ages what great 
minds are capable of when driven to the extremity of 
distress. 

We dare not suppose, sir, that efticient measures have 
not been adopted by your state to complete your battal- 
ions to the establishment recommended in the letter 
above referred to. On the contrary, we believe that 
the men are raised or raising, but we have to conjure 
you to hasten them on to the army without a moment's 
delay. We intreat you likewise to give the most pointed 



1780.] EXECUTIVE FROM 1776 TO 1786. 227 

direction to induce an unremitting attention to forward- 
ing the supplies alloted to your state, — to be furnished 
as specified in our letter of the 2d instant. 

Had the enemy on Wednesday last pursued what we 
generally believed to be their object, our heavy cannon 
and stores would inevitably have fallen into their hands, 
as our miUtary force was incompetent to their protection, 
and the means of conveying them to places more distant 
for want of horses and carriages, out of our power. 

Since writing the above, a second letter from the 
General has been handed us, a copy whereof we enclose. 
Previous to our recommendation to complete the battal- 
ions to 504 rank and file, we had a conference with the 
General on the subject, in which the matter was thor- 
oughly canvassed and the necessity of the augmentation 
clearly evinced. — The reduction of Charlestown was 
then still problematical, we had even hopes that it would 
have been saved, and the Maryland and Delaware lines 
have returned to this army, which then, with the quota 
requested of the states, would have amounted to about 
25,000 men, the number which Congress had promised 
our illustrious ally should be brought into the field to 
co-operate with her troops. It is now believ^ed that 
Charlestown is reduced, and the troops which defended 
it prisoners, consequently we shall certainly not have the 
Maryland and Delaware troops ; hence those in this 
quarter will be less by nearly three thousand men than 
estimated, and we therefore most earnestly intreat that 
no reduction may be made from the numbers we have 
stated as necessary. 



228 CORRESPONDENCE OF THE NEW JERSEY [1780. 

We are, with great respect and esteem, your Excel- 
lency's most ob't and h'ble servant, 

PH. SCHUYLER, 
Chairman of the Committee. 
His Excellency, Governor Livingston. 



From General Washington to a Committee of Congress, 
enclosed in the foregoing. 

Morristown, May 25th, 1780. 

Gentlemen, — I have attentively considered the cir- 
cular letter to the different states which you did me the 
honor to communicate for my perusal, and I am happy 
to find that my ideas perfectly correspond with those of 
the committee. 

The view they have given of our situation is just, full 
and explicit. The measures they have recommended 
are well adapted to the emergency, and of indispensable 
necessity. I very freely give it as my opinion that 
unless they are carried into execution in the fullest 
extent, and with the greatest decision and rapidity, it 
will be impossible for us to undertake the intended co- 
operation with any reasonable prospect of success. 

The consequences you have well delineated. The 
succour designed for our benefit will prove a serious 
misfortune, and instead of rescuing us from the embar- 
rassments we experience, and from the danger with 
which we are threatened, will in all probability precipi- 
tate our ruin. Drained and weakened as we already 
are, the exertions we shall make, though they may be 



1780.] EXECUTIVE FROM 1776 TO 1786. 229 

too imperfect to secure success, will at any rate be such 
as to leave us in a state of relaxation and debility, from 
which it will be difficult if not impracticable to recover. 
The country exhausted, the people disappointed, the 
consequence and reputation of those states in Europe, 
[impaired] our friends chagrined and discouraged, our 
enemies deriving new credit, new confidence, new re- 
sources — we have not, nor ought we to wish an alter- 
native. The court of France has done so much for us 
that we must make a decisive effort on our part. Our 
situation demands it — 'tis expected. We have the means 
of success without some unforeseen accident, and it only 
remains to employ them. But the conjuncture requires 
all our wisdom and all our energy. Such is the present 
state of this country that the utmost exertion of its 
resources, though equal, is not more than equal, to the 
object, and our measures must be so taken as to call 
them into immediate and full effort. There is only one 
thing I should have been happy the committee had 
thought proper to take upon a large scale. I mean the 
supply of men by draft. Instead of completing the 
deficiencies of the quotas assigned by the resolution of 
Congress of the 9th of February last, it would in my 
apprehension be of the greatest importance that the 
respective states should fill their battalions to their com- 
plement of five hundred and four, rank and file. Con- 
sidering the different possible dispositions of the enemy, 
and the different possible operations on our part, we 
ought not to have less than twenty thousand continental 
efficient troops. The whole number of battalions from 



230 CORRESPONDENCE OF THE NEW JERSEY [1780. 

New Hampshire to Pennsylvania inclusive, if complete, 
would not amount to this force. The total would be 
twenty three thousand one hundred and eighty four, 
rank and file, from which the customary deductions 
being made, there will not remain more than about 
eighteen thousand fit for the service of the field. To 
this may be added the remainder of the sixteen regi- 
ments, amounting to about one thousand. 

Unless the principal part of the force be composed 
of men regularly organized, and on the continuance of 
whose services we can rely, nothing decisive can be 
attempted. The mihtia are too precarious a depend- 
ence to justify such an attempt, when they form a 
material part of the plan. 

Militia cannot have the necessary habits nor the 
consistency, either for an assault or a seige. In em- 
ploying them essentially we should run a risk of being 
abandoned in the most critical moments. The expense 
and the consumption of provisions and stores (which 
we are bound by every motive to economise) will be 
very considerably increased. As we should not be 
able to keep the same body in the field during the 
whole campaign, we should a great part of the time 
have a double set of men to pay and feed, — those in 
actual service, those on the march to relieve them, or 
returning home when relieved. The operations of 
husbandry will suffer in proportion. The mode by a 
draft is, I am persuaded, the only efficacious one to 
obtain them in time. Nor can the period you have 
appointed for bringing them into the field be delayed 



1780.] EXECUTIVE FROM 1776 TO 1786. 231 

without defeating the object. I have little doubt that 
at any time, and much less at the present juncture, the 
powers of government exerted with confidence will be 
equal to the purpose of drafting. The hopes of the 
people, elevated by the prospects before them, will 
induce a cheerful compliance with this and with all the 
other measures of vigor which have been recommended 
and which the exigency requires. 

I have entire confidence that the respective legisla- 
tures will be fully impressed with the importance and 
delicacy of the present juncture, and will second the 
views of the committee by the most speedy and vigor- 
ous efforts. 

With every sentiment of respect and esteem, I have 
the honor to be, gentlemen, your most obed't and h'ble 
servant, 

G'* WASHINGTON. 
The hon'ble the Committee of Congress. 



From Samuel Huntington, President of Congress, to 
Governor Livingston. 

Philadelphia, June 15, 1780. 
Dear Sir, — Congress repeat their appUcations to 
your state. Tliev would willingly hope that their 
former representations have not been ineffectual, and 
that the states are pursuing measures to enable our 
armies to take the field with a force superior to that of 
the enemy, and with such ample supplies of provision 
as will not only maintain them in plenty, but enable the 



232 CORRESPONDENCE OF THE NEW JERSEY [1780. 

commander-in-chief, if necessary, on any extraordinary 
occasion to avail himself of the aid of the militia, but 
upon these hopes Congress dare not rely. Every mo- 
ment presses. It is necessary they should have the 
most explicit assurances not only that their requisitions 
will be complied with, but that such compliance will be 
as immediate as the pubhc wants are urgent. The 
letter from our committee at head-quarters to you, state 
those wants without exaggeration. They state some 
facts, and leave to your government to supply others, 
which it would have been improper to commit to paper. 
The object of this address is to enforce their requests, 
and to entreat you not to repose your safety upon the 
spirit and vigilance of others, while any means within 
your own power are left untried. The present occa- 
sion calls for the united force of America. It gives us 
great consolation that, notwithstanding the great diffi- 
culties in which we are involved, the resources of the 
states, if speedily applied, are sufficient to relieve us 
from them. Every state in the Union is bound by the 
strongest obligations to afford us their aid, and we trust 
that at this critical emergency, no present ease or con- 
venience of individuals will be put in competition with 
the lasting happiness of milUons. That the rulers of 
states will not hesitate to exert their utmost authority, 
and that the people have too much understanding to 
refuse a temporary submission to such vigorous exertions 
as are necessary to secure them from continued oppres- 
sion, and established tyranny. 

A Common Council involves the power of direction, 



1780.] EXECUTIVE FROM 1776 TO 1786. 233 

Let not our measures be checked or controled by 
negligence, or partial views and interests of separate 
communities while tliev profess to be members of one 
body. Too long have the dearest interests of America 
been sacrificed to present ease. Too many of us have 
slept in false security. Let us awake before the season 
for successful exertion is passed. Judge you whether 
the loss of Charlestown, and the situation of your grand 
army do not call for every spirited effort. The objects 
which claim your immediate attention are clearly 
pointed out by the Requisitions of Congress, and their 
committee at Head-quarters. Let them be complied 
with. Enable us to co-operate vigorously with the 
fleets and army of our ally, and we may reasonably 
hope, through the blessing of Divine Providence, for a 
speedy and happy determination of a controversy which 
is to give freedom and independence to our country. 
By order of Congress, 

SAM. HUNTINGTON, President. 
His Excellency, Governor Livingston, 



From the Committee of Co-operation to Governor Liv- 



ingston. 



In Committee of Congress, ^ 
Morristown, June 19th, 1780. S 

Sir, — We enclose you a copy of General Washing- 
ton's letter to us of this day. 

We have in our former letters dwelt so forcibly on the 
several matters contained in the general's letter, that it is 



234 CORRESPONDENCE OF THE NEW JERSEY [1780. 

unwelcome, almost unnecessary, for us to say anything 
more on them. But when we consider the season for 
operation wears fast away : the small force we now 
have in the field, being still fed in a scanty and uncer- 
tain ninnner : the hourly expectation of the fleet and 
army of our ally on our coast, and that the commander- 
in-chief, as well as ourselves, are as yet totally unin- 
formed what are to be our expectations, on the subject 
of our former letters : — be assured, sir, we feel an anx- 
iety congenial with his. You will therefore, we are 
persuaded, pardon us for being thus solicitous, when we 
again entreat you, in the most earnest manner, to use 
every exertion in your power to engage your state, to a 
speedy and decisive compliance with our former requi- 
sitions. The two points we would wish to press most 
forcibly on yours and the minds of the legislature of 
your state are, the immediately forwarding your quota 
of troops necessary to complete your battalions in 
the continental army, and the supplies of provisions 
agreeable to the estimates inclosed you in our letters 
of the — instant. At the same time we would not wish 
you to consider any part of our former requisitions as 
become in the least degree unnecessary ; on the con- 
trary, v/e are now strongly convinced that they are 
already as small as the important objects in view can 
possibly admit of. We may mention the two first as 
the most immediately and indispensably necessary. 
For reinforced as the enemy now are, by the return of 
their troops from the reduction of Charlestown, we 
momently expect an attack will be made on our weak 



1780.] EXECUTIVE FROM 1776 TO 1786. 235 

and almost resistless army. Should this event happen 
whilst in this state, we seriously dread the result. 

From the well known indefatigable attention of your 
state, to the welfare of the United States, we cannot 
entertain a doubt of its exertions at this interesting 
conjuncture ; and we most earnestly entreat you, to 
give us the earliest information of the final determina- 
tions of your state on the subjects of this and our former 
letters. 

We are, sir, with the highest respect, yr most obed't 
servts, 

JNO. MATTHEWS, 
NATH. PEABODY. 
His Excellency, Governor Livingston. 



From General Washington to the Committee of Co- 
operation. ^ 

Head-Quarters, Springfield, June 19th, 1780. 

Gentlemen, — I have received information which, 
though not official, I deem authentic, that some of the 
states have taken up the measure of augmenting their 
battalions by a draft on a less extensive footing, than 
was urged in your circular letter of the 25th of May. 
Though I wish to pay in every instance implicit def- 
erence to the determination of the respective states, I 
think it my duty, in the present crisis, once more to 
declare with freedom, that I conceive the measure of 
filling our battalions to their full complement, fundamen- 
tal to a full co-operation upon a large scale. That 



236 CORRESPONDENCE OF THE NEW JERSEY [1780. 

anything short of this, will infallibly compel us to con- 
fine ourselves to a mere defensive plan, except as to 
some little partial indecisive enterprises against remote 
points, and will of course disappoint the expectations of 
our allies, and protract the war. The force which has 
been stated as necessary is as small as can give us 
any prospect of a decisive effort. If it is not furn- 
ished, we must renounce every hope of this kind. It 
remains with the states to realize the consequences. 

I have the honor to be, with the greatest respect and 
esteem, gentlemen, your obed't ser't, 

GO WASHINGTON. 
His Excellency, Governor Livingston. 



From General Washington to the Committee of Co- 
operation. 

Head Quarters, Springfield, June 20, 1780. 
Gentlemen, — From the vast importance of the 
things, I hoped I should have been informed before this 
of the measures which the several states meant to adopt 
in consequence of our late requisitions, but as I have 
not, I am certain you are unadvised yourselves, and have 
only to lament with you the delay. This is a point of 
primary consequence. We are now arrived at the 
period when we may momently expect the fleet from 
France. For want of information it has been impossi- 
ble for me to digest a system of co-operation. I have 
no data on which to proceed, and of course were the 
armament to come, I should find myself in the most 



1780.] EXECUTIVE FROM 1776 TO 1786. 237 

delicate, embarrassing, and cruel situation. The French 
commanders, from the relation in which I stand, the 
instant they reach, our coast will look to me for a plan 
of the measures to be pursued, and I ought, of right, to 
have one prepared. But I cannot even give them con- 
jectures. The interests of the states, the reputation of 
their councils, the justice and gratitude due our allies, 
a regard for my own character, all demand, that I 
should, without delay, be enabled to ascertain and 
inform them what we can or cannot undertake. Be- 
sides there is a point now to be determined, on which 
the success of all our future operations may turn, which 
for want of knowing our prospects, I am altogether at 
a loss which course to pursue. 

To avoid involving the fleet and army of our allies, 
in circumstances which, if not seconded by us, would 
expose them to material inconvenience and hazard — I 
shall be obliged to suspend a step, the delay of which 
may be fatal to our hopes ; I therefore beg leave to 
suggest to the committee the indispensable necessity of 
writing again to the different states, urging them to 
give immediate and precise information of the measures 
they have taken, the success they have had, and the 
probable result of them. 

I have the honor to be with great respect and esteem 
gentlemen, your most obe't ser't, 

GO WASHINGTON. 
Hon. Committee of Co-operation. 



238 CORRESPONDENCE OF THE NEW JERSEY [1780. 

Frjfm General Washington to the Committee of Co- 
operation, f^ 

Head-quarters, Rockaway, June 20, 1780. 

Gentlemen, — The enemy are now in full force, 
bending their march towards Morristown, and by my 
last advices, had advanced beyond Springfield. They 
were vigorously opposed by our advanced corps. But 
what could the valor of a handful do against so infinite 
superiority of numbers \ The enemy can effect any 
particular object they may attempt. Besides the army 
they can have no other in this state than our stores. 
As we cannot defend them we must endeavor to remove 
them. I am so entirely engaged in attention to our 
mihtary operations, that I must entreat you to write to 
the Executive of Pennsylvania and Jersey pressing 
them to bring out all the wagons they can to our re- 
lief. An application has been already made to Pennsyl- 
vania for two hundred and fifty wagons, these ought 
to be instantly furnished. 

But we do not know what may be the ultimate de- 
signs of the enemy ; all we know is that they are very 
strong, and that we are very weak. I beg leave 
to recommend that the states may be again called upon 
to redouble their exertions to comply with the demands 
that have been already made upon them. It is essen- 
tial to our immediate safety, to say nothing of the ex- 
pected co-operation. If she means to be free this is 
the moment for America to exert herself. 



1780.] EXECUTIVE FROM 1776 TO 1786. 239 

With every sentiment of esteem, I have tlie honor to 
be, gentlemen, your must h'ble serv't, 

G^ WASHINGTON. 
Hon'ble Committee of Congress. 



From the Committee of Co-operation to Governor 
Livingston, enclosing the foregoing. 

In Committee of Congress, Morristown, June 23d, 1780. 

Sir, — Impressed with the necessity of giving you 
the earhest information of every important occurrence, 
we therefore inclose you a copy of a letter from the 
commander-in-chief this moment received. 

From the accumulated distresses of our army which 
we are daily spectators of; from the jeopardy we have 
twice seen them in, and from the fatal consequences 
that must have resulted from a defeat (which would 
inevitably have been the consequence, had the enemy 
at first, and still will be should they even now pursue 
their object.) We are constrained again to call on you 
in the most pressing manner, to forward your quota 
of men and supplies agreeably to our estimate of the 
2d instant, and prevent the total sacrifice of the few 
brave and intrepid spirits that at present compose our 
army, and avoid the indelible stain that must conse- 
quently be fixed on these states, should such an event 
take place. 

That part of the General's letter respecting the state 
of the stores here, is a matter of such pressing necessity 
that we conceive it to be our duty to give the earliest 



240 CORRESPONDENCE OF THE NEW JERSEY [1780. 

attention to it. The situation of the magazines at this 
point is truly deplorable, the enemy are certainly push- 
ing at them, and we are in no condition to move them 
for want of teams ; if they do not effect their purpose 
at this time it is evident they mean to persist until the 
situation of our affairs renders it necessary for the 
remains of our army to move from hence, when there 
will be no impediment to the execution of their plan. 
We therefore hope, sir, you will enable the officers of 
the departments to improve this interval so as to effect 
their removal to a place of greater safety by having the 
teams which are requested of your state immediately 
sent forward. 

We have the honor to be your Excellency's most 
ob't and h'ble serv'ts, 

JNO. MATTHEWS, 
NATH. PEABODY. 



From the President of Congress to Governor 
Livingston. 

Philadelphia, June 29th, 1780. 

Sir, — The urgent necessity of drawing into the 
public treasury the ten miUions of dollars mentioned in 
the act of the 19th May was so fully pointed out, that 
Congress exceedingly regret the failure of this neces- 
sary supply ; the conjuncture is already arrived when 
it is become essential not only to the operations of this 
campaign, but to the very existence of the army. 

Congress therefore can no longer delay reiterating 



1780.] EXECUTIVE FROM 1776 TO 1786. 241 

the most importunate solicitations that the proportions 
of each of the states be forwarded immediately. For 
this purpose they have dispatched a special messenger, 
and they trust he will not meet with disappointment. . 
A further sum must also be speedily had or it will be 
impossible for the operations to proceed. Congress 
have therefore drawn on those states for the remainder 
of their quotas to the first of March last inclusive, and 
it is their duty to conjure the several states, if they 
should still be unprepared, that they will at all events 
transmit their arrears to the period last mentioned to 
the continental treasury within thirty days from the 
date of the warrants. 

The monthly estimates of money heretofore made 
were but barely sufficient at that time; their value has 
since greatly diminished, and the payment has been 
delayed long after it became due. These circumstances 
have already involved our affairs in much perplexity 
and driven to expedients which nothing but the last 
necessity could justify. Permanency and arrangement 
in the public finances must at every hazard be intro- 
duced and supported. 

In this view Congress do again with the most earnest 
sohcitude press on the several states the necessity of 
vigorous and decisive measures for carrying into full and 
immediate execution their resolutions of the 18th March 
last : — the doing which, at the same time that it places 
public credit on the surest basis, will in the course of 
the year give all the relief that could possibly result 
fi-om a further emission equal to the whole that is now 

16 



24'2 CORRESPONDENCE OF THE NEW JERSEY [1780. 

in circulation. These resolutions Congress are per- 
suaded are every day better understood, and that upon 
giving them their full effect very much depends the 
j&nal establishment of our liberties. 

It is unnecessary that Congress should suggest to the 
several states the expediency of providing by loans 
against any deficiency they may have reason to appre- 
hend from their taxes. 

The blank bills for the several states will be for- 
warded as fast as the acts of their Assemblies providing 
funds for them are transmitted to Congress. 

By order of Congress, 

SAM. HUNTINGTON. Presid't. 
His Excellency, Governor Livingston. 



v/ 



/ 
From General Washington to Governor Livingston. 

Head Quarters, Ramapaugb, June 30th, 1780. 
Sir, — As the levies required of the states for filling 
their battalions have not yet joined the army, or the 
French fleet arrived, I beg leave to inform you that it 
will be unnecessary for the militia which the honorable 
the committee of Congress were pleased to call for on 
a late occasion to be at the place appointed for their 
rendezvous before the 25tli next month. By this time 
I would willingly hope that things will be in such a 
train as to enable us to commence our operations and 
to make their aid essential. The present crisis is by 
far the most important and delicate that this country 
has ever experienced, and it pains me in the extreme 



1780.] EXECUTIVE FROM 1776 TO 1786. 243 

that we are so backward in all our measures. I hope 
a moment will not be lost in pushing on the levies to 
fill the battalions. Our allies would be chagrined were 
thej to arrive to-day, to find that we have but a handfiil 
of men in the field, and would doubt, it is more than 
probable, whether we had serious intentions to prose- 
cute measures with vigor. If we do not avail ourselves 
of their succour by the most decisive and energetic 
steps on our part, the aid they so generously bring may 
prove our ruin, and at best it will be in such case among 
the most unfortunate, next to that of absolute ruin, that 
could have befallen us. I think it my duty, as often as 
I have the honor of addressing the states, to forewarn 
them that the completion of their battalions to their full 
complement of five hundred and four, rank and file, is 
a measure of indispensable necessity to the intended 
co-operation, and that without it we cannot even 
attempt any thing decisive. 

I have the honor to be, with the greatest respect and 
esteem, your Excellency's most ob't and h'ble servant, 

G*' WASHINGTON. 
His Excellency, Governor Livingston. 



Fro77i the Secretary of the Board of War to the 
Governor. 

War Office, July 7th, 1780. 

Sir, — The board have the honor to inform you that 
there are two able fortified four-pounders at Carlisle be- 
longing to your state, — which were removed thither in 



244 CORRESPONDENCE OF THE NEW JERSEY [1780. 

the campaign of 1777, when the enemy invaded Penn- 
sylvania,— now ready to be deUvered to your Excellen- 
cy's order. 

The carriages belonging to these pieces are not in 
very good order, though quite sufficient for their trans- 
portation to the Jerseys. 

I have the honor to be, with high respect, your 
Excellency's most obedient servant. 
By order, 

BEN. STODDERT, Sec'y. 

His Excellency, Governor Livingston. 



Fro7n the Committe of Co-operation to Governor 
Livingston. 

In Committee of" Congress, Camp Tappan, August 16th, 1780. 

Sir, — Inclosed you will receive copy of a letter of 
the 15th instant from the Commissary General. Cir- 
cumstanced as our army at present is, the information 
contained in the letter becomes truly alarming. It 
requires the utmost attention of the officers, together 
with all the necessaries and even comforts of life, to 
render the service acceptable to recruits, and as the 
greater part of the army at present consist of that class 
of men, if the time should unhappily arrive when we 
will be reduced to the necessity of putting them on 
half allowance of provisions, or probably have none to 
give them, the consequence must be that those men, 
unaccustomed to endure this species of distress, and 
not brought to that state of discipline which can give 



1780.] EXECUTIVE FROM 1776 TO 1786. 245 

their officers that control over them they have acquired 
over the old soldiers, must revolt at the idea of tamely 
submitting to a service when, divested as they are of 
every other privilege the soldiers of all armies are 
entitled to and are furnished with, they cannot receive 
even the means of subsistence. If reduced to the 
extremity I have just mentioned, and an irreconcilable 
disgust should once take place among these men, and 
desertions (or perhaps something worse) begun, the 
infection will beyond a doubt pervade the whole army. 
For it is not to be expected that the few old soldiers 
now remaining will be disposed to go on, enduring the 
calamities they have so often experienced, when they 
find others equally bound with themselves, and who 
have as yet had none of those difficulties to encounter, 
manifesting so refractory a spirit at what they will 
conceive to be trifling, compared with their own suffer- 
ings. Should such an event take place, the train of 
ruinous consequences that will inevitably ensue, must 
at once strike you so obviously as to render unneces- 
sary my entering into a detail of them. We do there- 
fore earnestly request of you, sir, that the officers of 
your state appointed to procure and forward the supphes 
may be called on in the most urgent manner to give 
their utmost attention to the important business of 
keeping the army regularly supplied with your quota of 
the articles that have been assigned to your state. As 
you must plainly perceive, what embarrassments the 
least remission on the part of the states or any of them 
must throw us into. For it must be remembered that 



246 CORRESPONDENCE OF THE NEW JERSEY [1780. 

the monthly supphes are no more than what is barely 
necessary for the consumption of the army in the lime. 

It is true that the army does not at present amount to 
the numbers on which the estimate was made, but as 
the men are daily coming we are to suppose that the 
complement of men will be made up by the end of the 
month. But at all events it is incumbent on us to be 
provided to answer the largest demands that can be 
made on us. 

It is not only the immediate supply of the army that 
the committee would wish to call your attention, but 
likewise the necessity there is of the ***** 
* * * the supplies agreeably to the requisitions that 
have been heretofore made to prevent future alarms of 
this nature, and our giving you further trouble on the 
subject. 

I have the honor to be, with the highest respect, your 
Excellency's most obedient servant. 
On behalf of the Committee, 

JNO. MATTHEWS, 
His Excellency, Governor Livingston. 



^/ 



Froin General Washington to Governor Livinsston. 



Head-quarters, Orange-town, August 17, 1780. 

Dear Sir, — I have your Exeellency's favor of the 
4th instant. As soon as I found that Sir Henry Clin- 
ton's return from the eastward had frustrated the enter- 
prize which I had in contemplation, I directed Colonel 
Seely to return again to Morristown with the militia, 



1780.] EXECUTIVE FROM 1776 TO 1786. 247 

and write to the commanding officer of the state de- 
tachment in Monmouth, to remain there. By a return 
from Colonel Seely, of the 10th instant, his numbers 
only amounted to 443 ; and by a return of the same 
date from the commanding officer of the Jersey brigade 
only 159 recruits had then joined, and I hear of none 
since. These deficiencies in the last are so great and 
operate so seriously upon our plans, that I am obliged to 
represent to your Excellency the absolute necessity of 
calling upon the proper officers, in the respective coun- 
ties, to know how far they have succeeded in procuring 
the quotas allotted to them ; how many men they had 
sent forward, and whether they have any or what 
prospects of obtaining the remainder. I advert more 
particularly to the levies for the continental battalions. 
Your Excellency must be sensible that, unless the 
number of men demanded by the Committee of Co-op- 
eration in conjunction with me can be brought into the 
field, any attempt against the enemy in New York must 
be fruitless, and attended not only with disgrace but 
with an immense accumulation of unnecessary expense. 
Our calculations were founded upon a pretty exact 
knowledge of the strength of the garrison, and I do 
assure you our requisitions were as moderate as circum- 
stances would possibly admit. Should our continental 
battalions remain incompleted, the consequence will be 
that we must either totally abandon an enterprize upon 
which the hopes of the states and the expectations of 
our allies are fixed, or we must make up our deficiency 
by an increased demand of the militia. How distres- 



248 CORRESPONDENCE OF THE NEW JERSEY [1780. 

sing this will be to the people, how incompetent to the 
end, and how destructive to the slender magazines of 
every kind, jour Excellency can as well conceive as I 
can describe. 

I am persuaded I need not make use of further argu- 
ments to induce an exertion to collect and send forward 
all the men actually raised under the late law, and if 
that should be found incompetent to the end of obUging 
those counties which are still deficient to provide their 
quotas to fall without loss of time upon some more effi- 
cient measures for that purpose. 

I have just received advice from Newport that the 
greater part of a fleet of [victuaUng ships ?] from England 
to Quebec, had been taken by the Eastern cruizers. 
Sixteen of the prizes had arrived in the different parts. 

I have the honor to be with the greatest respect and 
regard, yr Excellency's most ob't serv't, 

G^ WASHINGTON. 
His Excellency, Gov'r Livingston. 

P. S. Six levies only have joined since the return of 
the 10th. 

I have appointed the 1st September for the trial of 
Moody at this place. If your Excellency knows of any 
material evidences against him, be pleased to direct 
them to attend. 



Fro7n the Committee of Co-operation to Governor 
Livingston. 

Camp Tappan, August 19, 1780. 
SiR^__"VVhen America stood alone against one of the 
most powerful nations of the earth, the spirit of liberty 



1780.] EXECUTIVE FROM 1776 TO 1786. 249 

seemed to animate her sons to the noblest exertions, 
and each man cheerfully contributed his aid in support 
of her dearest rights. When the hand of tyranny 
seemed to bear its greatest weight on the devoted 
country, their virtue and perseverance appeared most 
conspicuous and rose superior to every difficulty. If 
then such patriotism manifested itself throughout all 
ranks and orders of men among us, shall it be said at 
this day, this early day of our enfranchisement and in- 
dependence, that America has grown tired of being free. 
Let us, sir, but for a moment take a retrospective 
view of our then situation and compare it with the 
present, and draw such deductions from the premises, 
as every reasonable manor set of men ought to do. In 
the early stage of this glorious revolution we stood 
alone ; we had neither army, military stores, money, or 
in short any of those means which were requisite to 
authorize assistance. The undertaking was physically 
against us, but Americans abhorred the very idea of 
slavery ; therefore, reposing the righteousness of their 
cause in the hands of the Supreme Disposer of all 
human events, they boldly ventured to defy the ven- 
geance of a tyrant, and either preserve their freedom 
inviolate to themselves and posterity, or perish in the 
attempt. This was the situation and temper of the 
people of this country, in the beginning of this contro- 
versy. At this day America is in strict alliance with 
one of the first nations of the earth, for magnanimity, 
power and wealth, and whose affairs are conducted by 
the ablest statesmen, with a Prince at their head who 



250 CORRESPONDENCE OF THE NEW JERSEY [1780- 

hath justly acquired the title of the protector of the 
rights of mankind. A respectable fleet and army of 
our ally are already arrived among us, and a considera- 
ble reinforcement is hourly expected, which when 
arrived will give us a decided superiority in these seas ; 
the whole to co-operate with the force of this country, 
against the common enemy. Another powerful nation, 
(Spain) though not immediately allied with us, yet, in 
fighting her own, she is daily fighting the battles of 
America, from whence almost every advantage is de- 
rived to us that could be produced in a state of alHance. 
An army we have now in the field, part of whom 
are veterans, equal to any the oldest established nations 
can boast. Our militia from a five years war, are 
become inured to arms. You have at the head of your 
army a general, whose abilities as a soldier, and worth 
as a citizen, stands confessed even by the enemy of his 
country. Our officers of all ranks are fully equal to 
the duties of their respective stations. Military stores 
are within our reach ; our money, though not so repu- 
table as that of other nations, with proper attention, we 
have reason to expect, will shortly emerge from its pre- 
sent embarrassed state, and become as useful as ever. 

Now, sir, from a comparative view of our circum- 
stances at the beginning and at this day, how much 
more pleasing and important must the latter appear 
than the former, to every dispassionate man. Then 
shall we leave to future generations to say, — shall we at 
present commit ourselves to the world to exclaim, that 
when Providence had benignly put into our hands the 



1780.] EXECUTIVE FROM 1776 TO 1786. 251 

most essential means of obtaining by one decisive blow 
the inestimable prize we have been contending tor, it 
was lost — disgracefully lost — for want of proper exer- 
tions on our part? That avarice, luxury and dissipa- 
tion had so enervated the boasted sons of American 
freedom, that, rather than forego their present ease and 
wanton pleasures, they would tamely, cowardly submit 
to the loss of their country and their liberty, and become 
those abject slaves which their generous nature but a 
few, very few years before would have revolted at the 
bare idea of? 

These reflections arise, sir, from the extraordinary 
backwardness of some states, and great deficiencies of 
others, in sending the men into the field that were re- 
quired of them near three months ago, and ought to 
have joined the army fifty days past, and an apprehen- 
sion that from this torpitude America lias forgot she is 
contending for liberty and independence, and that the 
good intentions of our generous ally will be totally 
frustrated by our unpardonable remissness. Our former 
letters to the states have been full on this very import- 
ant subject, and we are concerned to be driven to the 
necessity of reiteration ; but our duty to our country, 
our respect for the reputation of the commander-in- 
chief of our army, impel us to it, for a knowledge of 
the force that has been required of the states for the 
campaign, and which was allowed to be adequate to an 
important enterprize, will induce a belief in our coun- 
trymen and in the world, that it has been furnished ; and 
they must stand amazed to see our army inactive and 



252 CORRESPONDENCE OF THE NEW JERSEY [1780. 

things not in that train for operation, which ought in such 
a case to be expected, especially at this advanced season 
of the year. Again, the force of our ally now with us, 
and the shortly expected arrival of its second division, 
must clearly evince the utility of our army being put in 
a condition to undertake an enterprize which if suc- 
cessful, must give a deadly wound to our unrelenting 
and ambitious foe. But what apology can be made, 
if when the commander-in chief of our army should be 
called on by the commander of the forces of our gen- 
erous ally, and informed he is ready to undertake with 
him whatever measure he shall think proper to point 
out, he shall be reduced to the cruel necessity of ack- 
nowledging his inability to engage in any enterprize 
that can possibly redound to the honor or reputation of 
the arms of either nation. Sir, the reflection is too 
humiliating to be dwelt on without the extremest pain ; 
nay, horror ! 

You must pardon us, worthy sir, for the freedom with 
which we have now declared our sentiments on this 
truly interesting subject. We flattter ourselves great 
allowances will be made for our situation, when we 
daily have before our eyes specimens of that want of 
energy in conducting our affairs, which must shortly so 
far embarrass us as to render all future exertions inade- 
quate to the attainment of those great purposes at 
which we aim. America wants not resources ; we have 
men (independent of those necessary for domestic pur- 
poses) more than sufficient to compose an army capable 
of answering our most sanguine expectations ; and our 



1780.] EXECUTIVE FROM 1776 TO 1786. 253 

country teems with provisions of every kind necessary 
to support them. It requires nothing more than a 
proper degree of energy to bring them forth to make 
us a happy people. This, we trust, sir, the state over 
which you preside, will show no reluctance in contribu- 
ting her aid to, by taking such decisive measures as will, 
without loss of time, bring into the field the remainder 
of your quota of men, that have been required for the 
campaign. The articles of provisions, forage and teams 
are no less important than men, but as the committee 
had the honor of addressing you but a few days ago, on 
the subject of provisions, and the other articles being 
so nearly allied with that, we will not intrude it on you 
at this time. 

Inclosed is a copy of the letter from the commander- 
in-chief of the 17th inst, to the committee. It will 
fully show you the state of the army at this time, and 
how great a deficiency of men there is to what there 
ought to have been before this day. However we 
hope, sir, it will be no discouragement to your state to 
using their utmost exertions for furnishing the remainder 
of their troops to join the army as soon as possible ; and 
that the idea of its being probably too late, before a 
sufficient force can be collected to promise a successful 
campaign, will be totally banished ; for policy as well 
interest dictate to us to be always prepared to take 
advantage of every favorable conjuncture, and it is 
impossible to say how soon such a one will present 
itself. 

The general's letter treats this subject in every other 



254 CORRESPONDENCE OF THE NEW JERSEY [1780. 

respect so fully as to render it unnecessary to add more 
than that we have the honor to be your Excellency's 
most obedient and humble servant, 

In behalf of the Committee, 

JNO. MATTHEWS. 
His Excellency, Governor Livingston. 



Froth General Washington to Governor Livingston. 

Head-Quarters, near the Liberty Pole, } 
Bergen County, August 26th, YtSO. \ 

Dear Sir, — In mine of the 20th instant I desired 
your Excellency to discharge the whole of Col. Seely's 
militia except about one hundred for the purpose of a 
guard at Morristown, and to direct the September class 
to hold ihemselves in readiness to come out upon the 
shortest notice. I would only wish you to continue 
those orders, but not to call out the classes, except about 
one hundred men for the purpose above mentioned, 
until you hear from me. Our extreme distress for want 
of provision makes me desirous of lessening the con- 
sumption as much as possible. Some brigades of the 
army have been five days without meat. To endeavor 
to relieve their wants by stripping the lower parts of the 
county of its cattle, I moved two days ago to this place 
and yesterday completely foraged Barbadoes and Ber- 
gen Necks. Scarcely any cattle were found but milch 
cows and calves of one and two years old, and even 
those in no great plenty. When this scanty pittance is 
consumed, I know not to what quarter to look, as our 



1780.] EXECUTIVE FROM 1776 TO 1786. 255 

prospects from the eastward, upon which our principal 
dependence is placed, are far from being favorable. 

The monthly requisition of meat from the state of 
Jersey has been complied with in a very small degree, 
as the commanding general informs me that he has 
received but seven cattle from Mr. Dunham, the super- 
intendent since the month of April. I am very far 
from complaining of the general exertions of the state, 
on the contrary, I have every reason to acknowledge 
them upon several pressing occasions ; but your Excel- 
lency must be sensible that when the support of an 
army is made to depend upon certain quantities of pro- 
vision to be furnished regularly by the different states, 
the failure of any one must be more or less felt. 

I have the honor to be, with very great regard and 
esteem, your Excellency's most ob't and h'ble serv't, 

GO WASHINGTON. 
His Excellency, Governor Livingston. 

P. S. I have received your Excellency's favors of 
the 21st and 23d. I do not imagine it will be possible 
to discover the officer who permitted Heyden to escape, 
as the description is so exceedingly vague. As money 
does not appear from the deposition to have had any 
operation, I am led to believe that the thing has hap- 
pened more from an improper knowledge of duty, than 
from any design. I am sorry to hear of your Excel- 
lency's indisposition. 



/. 



256 CORRESPONDENCE OF THE NEW JERSEY [1780. 

From General Washington to Governor Lwinsrston. 



Head Quarters, near the Liberty Pole, 
Bergen County, August 27th, 1780. 

Sir, — The hon'ble the committee of Congress having 
returned to Congress, I am under the disagreeable 
necessity of informing your Excellency that the army 
is again reduced to an extremity of distress for want 
of provisions. The greater part of it had been without 
meat from the 21st to the 26th ; to obtain some rehef I 
moved down to this place with a view of stripping the 
lower parts of the county of the remainder of its 
cattle, which after a most vigorous exaction is found to 
aftbrd between two and three days' supply only, and 
those consisting of milch cows and calves of one or 
two years old. 

When this scanty pittance is consumed I know not 
what will be our next resource, as the commissary can 
give me no certain information of more than 120 head 
of cattle expected from Pennsylvania, and about 150 
from Massachusetts, I mean in time to supply our imme- 
diate wants. 

Military coercion is no longer of any avail, as 
nothing further can possibly be collected from the coun- 
try in which we are obhged to take a position without 
depriving the inhabitants of the last morsel. This 
mode of subsisting, supposing the desired end could be 
answered by it, besides being in the highest degree dis- 
tressing to individuals is attended with ruin to the morals 
and discipline of the army ; — during the four days which 
we have been obhged to send out small parties to pro- 



1780.] EXECUTIVE FROM 1776 TO 1786. 257 

cure provision for themselves, the most enormous 
excesses have been committed. 

It has been no inconsiderable support of our cause to 
have had it in our power to contrast the conduct of our 
army with that of the enemy, and to convince the 
inhabitants that while their rights were wantonly viola- 
ted by the British troops, by ours they were respected. 
This distinction must unhappily now cease, and we 
must assume the odious character of the plunderers 
instead of the protectors of the people, the direct con- 
sequence of which must be to ahenate their minds from 
the army and insensibly from the cause. 

We have not yet been absolutely without flour, but 
we have this day but one day's supply in camp, and I 
am not certain that there is a single barrel between this 
place and Trenton. I shall be obliged therefore to 
draw one or two hundred barrels from a small magazine 
which I had endeavored to establish at West Point for 
the security of the garrison in case of a sudden inves- 
titure. 

From the above state of facts it may be foreseen that 
this army cannot possibly remain much longer together 
unless very vigorous and immediate measures are taken 
by the states to comply with the requisitions made upon 
them. 

The Commissary General has neither the means nor 
the power of procuring supplies — he is only to receive 
them from the several agents. Without a speedy 
change of circumstances, this dilemma will be involved, 
either the army must disband, or what is if possible 
17 



258 CORRESPONDENCE OF THE NEW JERSEY [1780. 

worse, subsist upon the plunder of the people. I would 
fain flatter myself that a knowledge of our situation 
will produce the desired relief, not a rehef of a few 
days, as has generally heretofore been the case, but a 
supply equal to the establishment of magazines for the 
winter. If these are not formed before the roads are 
broken up by the weather, we shall certainly experience 
the same difficulties and distresses the ensuing winter 
which we did the last. Although the troops have upon 
every occasion hitherto borne their wants with unparal- 
leled patience it will be dangerous to trust too often to 
a repetition of the causes of discontent. 

I have the honor to be, with great respect, your 
Excellency's most ob't and h'ble serv't, 

GO WASHINGTON. 
His Excellency, Governor Livingston. 



From the President of Congress to Governor 
Livingston. 

Philadelphia, September 3d, 1780. 
Sir — Your Excellency will receive herewith enclosed 
an act of Congress of the 26th ulto. earnestly recom- 
mending to the several states to take the most speedy 
and effectual means in their power for drawing in their 
respective quotas of the continental bills of credit, to be 
destroyed either by taxes or by exchanging for them 
new bills emitted pursuant to the resolution of the 18th 
of March last, at a rate not less than forty for one, that 
the whole of the new bills may be issued. 



1780.] EXECUTIVE FROM 1776 TO 1786. 259 

Also recommending to the several states to raise by 
taxes, payable in the new bills above mentioned or 
specie, their respective quotas of three million of dollars 
agreeable to the apportionment of the 7tli of October 
1779, and pay the same into the treasury of the United 
States as soon as possible, the payment to be fully com- 
pleted by the last day of December next, each state to 
be allowed interest from the time it is paid ; to be here- 
after adjusted according to a resolution of the 6th of 
October 1779. 

You will also observe by this act provision is made 
for payment of pubhc debts due in any of the states. 

Commissary Wadsworth is also the present Commis- 
sary General of purchases. 

And in order to prevent the possibility of a deprecia- 
tion in the new bills, it is earnestly recommended to the 
several states not to issue bills of credit for a currency 
on any acount whatever, in such manner as to have in 
circulation an amount greater than their respective 
quotas of the new bills. 

And in order that justice be done to the creditors of 
these United States for supphes furnished the army, or 
transportation thereof, provision is made by this act that 
such creditors be paid the just value of their debts, to 
be ascertained in the manner expressed in the act, and 
all debts due to the United States are to be justly paid 
in hke manner. 

I have the honor to be, with very great respect, your 
Excellency's most obedient and humble servant, 

SAM. HUNTINGTON, President. 
His Excellency, Governor Livingston. 



260 CORRESPONDENCE OF THE NEW JERSEY [1780. 

From Abraham Skinner, Commissary of Prisoners, to 
the Governor. 

Commissary of Prisoners' Office, ) 
Head Quarters, September 9th, 1780. \ 

Sir, — The very peculiar situation of the prisoners of 
war belonging to this state who are now in the hands 
of the enemy, induces me to request that your Excel- 
lency will give me instructions relative to their situation, 
or point out some method in which their distresses may 
be alleviated and their confinement made sufferable. 

The officers who are prisoners on parole on Long 
Island have not had the least supply or support from 
this office since the spring of the year 1779; since which 
they have been at board on Long Island and many of 
them are at present destitute of a single farthing, are 
liable to insult daily from their landlords, who seem 
tired of supporting them without fee or reward, and if 
their exchange could be effected, they would be detained 
for the payment of the debts they have contracted for 
their necessary support. 

The citizens and privates of this state, some few 
excepted, are confined in sugar-houses and churches in 
a wretched situation, many of them without a shirt or 
blanket, and no allowance except what they receive 
from the enemy and about 3|^ lbs. of bread, which is 
issued to them by the continental agent without any 
authority from the legislature of the state. 

To these distresses may be added, the mortification 
the Jersey prisoners feel in seeing their fellow sufferers 



1780.] EXECUTIVE FROM 1776 TO 1786. 261 

receive supplies from the neighboring states to which 
they belong, when their past services as soldiers and 
citizens merit equally as much attention. 

I am sorry to add that at present there seems to be 
not the smallest prospect of exchanging or releasing 
those men, and that if they are not timely supported 
they must as severely feel the consequences as you can 
possibly imagine. 

I shall at all times be happy to render them the ser- 
vices which my duty as well as inchnation may point 
out, and to fulfil your Excellency's directions with 
respect to the difficulties they labor under. 

I have the honor to be, with great respect, your 
Excellency's most ob't h'ble servant, 

ABRM. SKINNER, 
Commiss'y of Pris'rs H'd Q,rs. 
His Excellency, Governor Livingston. 



Fro7Ji a Committee of the Jersey Prisoners of War to 
Governor Livingston. 

Long Island, September 15th, 1780. 

Sir, — The officers, prisoners of war, and state pris- 
oners belonging to the state of New Jersey, beg leave 
to remind your Excellency of our distressing situation. 
The petition to the Assembly in May last which we 
enclosed under cover to your Excellency, we doubt not 
has been laid before them ; we not hearing from them 
since inclines us to think a multipUcity of business or 
some other cause has prevented them from paying that 



262 CORRESPONDENCE OF THE NEW JERSEY [1779. 

attention to us that our urgent necessities required ; 'tis 
sixteen months since we received the last supply, great 
part of which was disposed of in paying our arrears, 
which has ever been the case during near four years' 
captivity, which many of us have experienced to the 
extreme prejudice of our minds, bodies and estates ; con- 
sequently what might appear a tolerable supply at first, 
when our debts are paid, a few necessaries purchased 
at the most extravagant prices, we generally find our- 
selves possessed of but a scanty pittance indeed. We 
therefore humbly pray your Excellency will act the part 
of an advocate for us, that we may receive both a 
liberal and speedy supply, and as we are the immediate 
sufferers we hope it will not be deemed presumption in 
us to say we think fifty pounds per man is the least that 
will answer to pay our debts and clothe us properly for 
the winter season, exclusive of what is due for our 
board, which has not been paid since the 20th of May, 
1779. 

We are, with the highest esteem, and most perfect 
respect, your Excellency's most ob't and most h'ble 
servants. 

Signed in behalf of the whole, and at their 
request, 

HENDRICK VAN BRUNT, 
JOHN MERCER, 1st Regt. 
BATEMAN LLOYD, 3d. 
His Excellency, the Governor of N. Jersey. 



1780.] EXECUTIVE FROM 1776 TO 1786. 263 

List of the Officers of the State of New Jersey, Prison- 
ers of War. 

William B. Gifford, Capt. Con. 

John Munn, Lieut, do. 

Bateman Lloyd, do do. 

Abraham Stout, do. do. 

John , do. do. 

Benjamin Osman, do. do. 
Jona. Holmes, do. do. 
James Paul Ens'n. do. 
And'w Thompson, do. do. 
Ocky Wykoff, Col. Militia. 
Hendrick Van Brunt, Major do. 
William Ellis, do. do. 
James Whitlock, Lieut, do. 
Thomas Little, do. do. 
Tobias Polhimus, do. do. 
Jacob Covenhoven, Capt. do. 
John Cousins, do. do. 
And'w Barns, do. do. 
John Parsons, Lieut, do. 
Aaron Chew, do. do. 
Char'e Heavland, do. do. 
Thomas Cook, do. do. 
John Smock, Col. do. 
Barns Smock, Capt. do. 
Henry Smock, 
Hay, Major do. 



264 CORRESPONDENCE OF THE NEW JERSEY [1780. 

From Timothij Pickering, Cluarttr- Master-General. 

To the Honorable the Council and General Assembly of the State of 
New Jersey — 

Urged by my duty to the public and a regard to my 
own reputation, I am compelled to address your honor- 
able Houses on the subject of forage to supply the teams 
employed in transporting stores and provisions to the 
army. At present every post is destitute ; the pastures 
are generally eaten up, and will soon fail altogether. 
Then, unless some magazines of forage, particularly 
hay, are formed at the necessary posts in the route 
chiefly taken by wagons, transportation must wholly 
cease, the consequences of which I need not des- 
cribe. 

By your leave, I will observe that, the mode of ob- 
taining by purchase the quotas of supplies demanded 
by Congress of the several states, could not fail of 
involving us in the distress we now feel. For had all 
the current continental money in the United States 
been brought into the public treasuries at once, it would 
have been inadequate at the current prices, to the pur- 
chase of those supplies only. But if one half or even 
a third part of the money current were to be brought 
into the pubhc treasuries in the course of a year it would 
distress the people. Accordingly, it has been found ex- 
tremely difficult to collect the taxes that have been 
assessed, and if collected, they might have proved capi- 
tally deficient compared with the necessary public 
expenditures. 



1780.] EXECUTIVE FROM 1776 TO 1786. 265 

The above observation being incontestibly true, we 
may thence account for the distress that universally 
pervades our pubhc affairs. Hence it has happened 
that not a single magazine, is formed, either of provis- 
sion or forage, that the army has been so illy supported 
that the troops have been near a year without pay ; 
that they have sometimes been starving, and conse- 
quently licentious, as hunger will bear no restraint ; 
hence we must inevitably experience more capital evils, 
unless the system is speedily changed, and new and 
effectual mode of obtaining supplies adopted. What 
this should be, so far as it may respect the state of New 
Jersey, I earnestly entreat may be considered and 
speedily determined by your honorable Houses. But I 
beg leave to observe that, the circumstances of the army 
demand such measures to be taken, as will be quick 
and decisive in their operation, to prevent the total 
stoppage of transportation. 

The army itself will subsist as it long has done, 
(however painful and disagreeable the practice) on sup- 
plies of forage taken by military authority ; this is not 
eligible in itself, nor easily applied for the support of the 
teams employed in transportation. It is also evident 
that all attempts to purchase a sufficiency must at pre- 
sent prove ineffectual, and there seems to be no alter- 
native but impressing, in case the inhabitants refuse to 
part with their forage on such securities as the state can 
give. This measure may be disgusting, but if executed 
by the civil authority will be attended with fewer evils 
than impressing by military force. 



266 CORRESPONDENCE OF THE NEW JERSEY [1780. 

I have the honor to be, with very great respect, your 
most obedient servant, 

TIMOTHY PICKERING, Q. M. G. 



From the President of Congress to Governor 
Livingston. 

Philadelphia, Sept. 14th, 1780. 

Sir, — Your Excellency will receive herewith en- 
closed, an Act of Congress of this date, requesting the 
several states therein mention to furnish fat cattle to 
supply the army in proportion therein expressed. Con- 
gress found themselves under the necessity of requesting 
the state of New Jersey to furnish for an immediate 
supply, until cattle may arrive from the eastern states, 
275 head. 

If the measures adopted by the Act enclosed should 
be complied with, as we trust they will be, there will 
be no want in future of supplies for the army this cam- 
paign. The necessity of the measure is absolutely 
indispensable, and we believe the state of New Jersey, 
which hath so frequently exerted itself on pressing 
emergencies, will not be wanting in her endeavors to 
comply with the present requisition. Congress would 
have exempted that state from the present request, 
could they have devised any other means to feed the 
army, but as that was not in their power, it is requested 
in the most urgent terms, that the number of beeves 
mentioned may be furnished with all possible despatch, 
as well as to prevent the impending distresses of the 



1780.] EXECUTIVE FROM 1776 TO 1786. 267 

army, as the consequential distress that must fall upon 
the inhabitants in the vicinity of the army. 

I have the honor to be, vv^ith every sentiment of res- 
pect, your Excellency's most obedient servant, 

SAM. HUNTINGTON, President. 

His Excellency, Governor Livingston. 



From Ahrahaiii Clark to Josiah Hornhlower, Speaker of 
the AsseiJihly. 

Philadelphia, October 31st, 1780. 

Sir, — Herewith I enclose a resolution of the 12th 
inst., granting half pay for life, as well to officers reduced 
as to others. This is a kind of supplement to the reso- 
lution of the 3d, directing a reduction of the army. 
On this precipitate, and in my opinion, injudicious Act 
of Congress, it is unnecessary, perhaps improper for me 
to make any comments ; it speaks for itself, and in a 
language which in New Jersey will be better under- 
stood than relished. The states which had established 
half pay for life to the officers of their lines, aided 
by New York who entertains similar sentiments, forced 
this measure upon us. A measure contrary to the 
genius and pohtical ideas of the New England States; 
and New Jersey. 

In opposition to this resolution it was urged that the 
measure was unjust, improper and altogether unneces- 
sary to be forced upon the states who opposed it, as it 
was of no consequence to the United States in what 
mode any particular state gave satisfaction and rendered 



268 CORRESPONDENCE OF THE NEW JERSEY [1780. 

justice to their officers, provided they kept their regi- 
ments properly officered, which there could be no doubt 
would be done where the mode of doing it was left to 
themselves; whereas, a measure so disgustful would 
violate and prevent the exertions so necessary at this 
time ; but no reasons could prevail upon men fixed and 
determined. What is now to be done 1 Will or will 
not our legislature remonstrate against this procedure 
and insist upon an exemption ? If they mean not to sit 
down easy and quiet under this act, the sooner they 
explain themselves upon the subject, the better, as I 
beheve no reductions have yet been made in the army. 
As some persons are of opinion it would be of gene- 
ral utiUty for Congress to repeal that part of the reso- 
lution of the 18th of March, which admits rendering 
one dollar of the new emission in lieu of 40 of the 
old ; it may be proper for the legislature to instruct 
their delegates upon the subject, in case they think the 
measure advisable. This hath not been moved in Con- 
gress, nor do I know that it will. I do not wish in this 
to call your attention from more important matters 
unless you think this a matter of consequence. The 
subject I have not considered maturely since the new- 
emission is passing, where issued, at a depreciation of 
near one half, owing as is supposed, to fixing the same 
at one for forty of the old emission. The expectation 
of Congress in that act was that the new bills would 
fix the value of the old, but we find the value of the 
new is fixed, and varies with the old. As the laws of 
our state are conformable to the resolutions of Congress 



1780.] EXECUTIVE FROM 1776 TO 1786. 269 

your delegates cannot consent to any alteration without 
your direction, should the same be moved and become 
ever so necessary under the present change of circum- 
stances. This tie makes any consideration of the sub- 
ject unnecessary in your delegates without your partic- 
ular orders for that purpose. 

I have the honor to be, sir, with all proper regard, 
your obed't and humble servant, 

ABRA. CLARK. 
Hon. Josiah Hornblower, Esq. 

From Judge Paterson to Mr. Stevens. 

Raritan, December 4th, 1780. 
Sir, — On my return from Sussex Court I met with 
your letter, which notified me of my being in the dele- 
gation for Congress. The appointment was unex- 
pected, especially as some of the gentlemen of the 
Legislature were fully possessed of my sentiments on 
the occasion. From the commencement of this con- 
test I have held myself bound to serve the public in 
any station in which iny fellow-citizens might place me, 
and it is therefore with regret that I find myself under 
the necessity of declining the present appointment. I 
look upon it, however, as an act of justice to myself, as 
well as of respect to your honorable body, to declare 
that my non-acceptance of the delegacy is owing to its 
interference with my official duty in another line. The 
business of a criminal nature in this state is at present 
intricate and extensive, it unavoidably occupies the far 



270 CORRESPONDENCE OF THE NEW JERSEY [1781. 

greater part of my time. I feel its weiglit, and have 
more than once been ready to sink under it. Of the 
business of Congress, its variety, extent and importance 
I shall forbear to speak. Viewing these offices as I do, 
I am convinced that no one man can execute them both 
at the same time ; if he can acquit himself well in one 
of them at once, it is full as much as can reasonably be 
expected. I am sure I shall count it one of the hap- 
piest circumstances of my life, if in the execution ot 
my present trust alone I can give satisfaction to the 
public under which I act. 

I am, sir, with respect, your ob't and h'ble servant, 

WM. PATERSON. 
The Honorable Mr. Stevens. 



I 



From the President of Cong?-ess to Governor 
Livingston. 

In Congress, January 15th, 1781. 
Sir, — A circular address to the respective states of 
the 9th day of November last communicated a requi- 
sition of Congress for the service of the current year. 
This act and the system of the 18th of March respect- 
ing our finances include the principal means which 
their present powers have enabled Congress to adopt 
for prosecuting the war. Measures so deeply interest- 
ing not only demand the unremitted attention and 
vigorous support of the Legislatures, but Congress 
ought to be informed of their progress with the utmost 
precision ; both are necessary to the public credit, to the 



1781.] EXECUTIVE FROM 1776 TO 1786. 271 

success of our military operations, to the very existence 
of our armies. By an act of the 21st of October the state 
agents are directed to transmit to the commander-in- 
chief and to the Commissary General respectively, 
monthly returns of all suppUes which shall be drawn 
into their hands, specifying the articles and the maga- 
zines where they shall be deposited ; it is equally 
incumbent on the state Treasurers to make similar 
returns to the board of treasury of all the taxes which 
shall be brought into their respective offices, and of the 
issues of the new emissions. These are regulations 
which cannot be dispensed with, and it is recommended 
to the legislatures to enjoin them under such penalties 
as will enforce a prompt and punctual obedience. 
Besides those siippHes for the current year which can- 
not be anticipated without the utmost danger, the pay- 
in arrear to the army demands your most serious con- 
sideration. The honor of government, and mihtary 
order and discipline depend on its regular discharge. 
Nor was a fund sufficient for this and other purposes 
neglected : for had the requisitions for taxes prior to the 
act of the 1 8th of March been productive ; had the 
warrants on the state treasurers for the balances of 
those states drawn so long ago as the first of July, been 
satisfied, a complaint of this nature could not have 
existed. 

We are not unapprized of the embarrassments at- 
tending the collection of taxes from the credit given on 
commissaries' and quarter-master's certificates for the 
support of the army, but it is manifest that Congress 



272 CORRESPONDENCE OF THE NEW JERSEY [1781. 

could not provide a remedy, It was found expedient 
to discontinue the emission of paper money, and, from 
various causes public necessities were not relieved by 
loans, at the same time, though the measure was em- 
braced of extinguishing those certificates in the taxes. 
Hence the treasury has been destitute of supply, almost 
every resource being cut off at the same instant ; in vain 
have we endeavored to obtain a knowledge of the 
amount of those certificates or how far they have been 
reduced, and they continue to obstruct every plan 
which hath been devised for restoring public credit and 
supporting the war. 

This is a subject to which the authority of the legis- 
lature alone is competent, and it will become their 
wisdom and their zeal for pubhc service, to give it the 
fullest investigation. In the mean time an immediate 
provision for the pay of the army is indispensably ne- 
cessary: We need not dwell upon the injustice or the 
probable effects of a delay. They are obvious and 
alarming ; and we earnestly call upon the several states 
to devise prompt and efficient means for remitting to 
the paymaster-general, on warrants to be issued in his 
favor, the respective quotas assigned to them by the 
enclosed estimate. The necessity of great and spirited 
exertions becomes every day more evident, while the 
cruel policy of our enemies raises universal indignation 
and abhorrence: it admonishes us that no time is to be 
lost in rescuing our bleeding country from desolation, 
and establishing its independence on the basis of an 
honorable and permanent peace. However great may 



1781.] EXECUTIVE FROM 1776 TO 1786. 273 

be the burthens which we are called upon to sustain, 
let us remember that they are the price of liberty, and 
that they have been common to every people w ho have 
dared to struggle for social happiness against violence 
and oppression. Let us reflect on our solemn engage- 
ments to devote our lives and our fortunes to the best of 
causes ; and we shall find that we cannot be destitute 
of resources. Let us review the past miseries of a lin- 
gering war, and the danger of its further protraction, 
and we shall seize the golden opportunity of co-opera- 
ting with our generous ally by every possible effort to 
render the approaching campaign glorious and decisive. 
If we are enabled in this stage of the conflict to defend 
ourselves by annual taxes, can we hesitate to interpose 
our responsibility or to contribute a portion of our cap- 
ital ? Will a people whose fortitude and patriotism 
have excited the admiration of Europe, languish at the 
bright dawn of triumph, and endanger the public hap- 
piness by a selfish parsimony? While Congress enter- 
tains just sentiments of their constituents, there can be 
no place for such humiUating apprehensions. On the 
contrary, we shall look with confidence for a liberal 
compliance with every requisition which the public 
exigencies dictate. Experience has pointed out the 
dangers to which we have been exposed by a want of 
punctuality in former supplies, and we are persuaded 
that those dangers will for the future be carefully pre- 
vented. 

For our own part we have left nothing unessayed to 
render the operations of the war more vigorous and 

18 



274 CORRESPONDENCE OF THE NEW JERSEY [1781. 

successful. We have applied for naval succours from 
abroad. If we no longer continue unfortunate in the 
importation, we shall not want a competent supply of 
clothing, arms and ammunition. We are once more 
attempting a foreign loan of specie ; we have pointed 
out and required the aids of men, provisions, and money, 
which in every event must be produced from our own 
internal resources ; we have strenuously urged upon the 
states a punctual compliance on their part with those 
requisitions, with the states who alone have authority to 
execute, with an enlightened people who know how to 
estimate the blessings for which we contend : it remains 
to give the measures which we have recommended their 
fiill and seasonable effects. 

By order of Congress, 

SAM. HUNTINGTON, President. 
His Excellency, Gov'r Livingston. 



From the President of Congress to Governor 
Livingston. 

Philadelphia, February 8, 1781. 
giR^ — Your Excellency will receive enclosed two^ 
jimportant resolves of Congress of the 3d and 7th inst., 
ireoommending to the respective states as indispensably 
mecessary that they vest a power in Congress to levy 
for the use of the United States, a duty of five per cent. 
:ad valorem, at the time and place of importation, upon 
;all .good«, wares and merchandize, of foreign growth 
and .manufacture, which may be imported into any of 



1781.] EXFX'UTivE FROM 1776 TO 1786. 275 

the said states from any foreign port, island, or planta- 
tion afrer the first day of May, 1781, except arms, &c. 
therein expressed. Also a like duty on all prizes and 
prize goods. 

The monies arising from the said duties to be appro- 
priafled to the discharge of the principal and interest of 
the debts already contracted on the faith of the United 
States for supporting the present war, and the duties 
continued until the said debts are finally discharged. 

You will observe from the tenor of the resolves, that 
if any one or more of the states immediately pass a law 
vesting in Congress the power requested, it cannot take 
effect or operate to any purpose until all the states that 
are not prevented by the events of the war shall have 
passed similar laws. That is, at present, all the states 
except South Carolina and Georgia ; and when all the 
states have passed the necessary laws, the money arising 
from the duties is to be applied for their benefit, exclu- 
sive of the remaining states, unless such states shall 
pass similar laws the first session after the events of the 
war will admit of the assembling their legislatures; and 
Congress have not the least doubt of their complying 
as soon as circumstances shall put it in their power. 

The necessity of the duties and imposts being raised 
under one general and uniform direction, is an idea 
that will readily suggest itself I am specially directed 
to urge the necessity of caUing the Assembly, if not 
already convened, for the purpose of vesting Congress 
with the powers mentioned in the enclosed resolutions. 
Although it may be improbable any person not particu- 



276 CORRESPONDENCE OF THE NEW JERSEY [1781. 

larly acquainted with the daily business in Congress, 
should have an adequate conception of the difficulties 
and embarrassments that arise for want of some certain 
and permanent fund to support the national credit and 
cement more efl'ectually the common interests of the 
United States, yet I doubt not the wisdom, knowledge, 
and penetration of the respective legislatures will view 
those embarrassments as very great. 

It ought to be remembered that loans are not to be 
obtained without some permanent fund estabhshed, at 
least to discharge the annual interest punctually ; that 
the army in the present state of our finances, must be 
in a great measure immediately supported'by the states, 
separately and perhaps very unequally ; and a train of 
embarrassments, too obvious to need enumeration, 
must ensue ; which have already been felt in a degree 
and must greatly increase. I have only to add that it 
will be of importance to transmit to Congress the Acts 
that may be passed in consequence of the enclosed re- 
solves as soon as possible, 

I have the honor to be, with every sentiment of 
esteem and respect, your Excellency's most obedient 
and most humble servant, 

SAM. HUNTINGTON, President. 
His Excellency, the Governor of New Jersey. 



1781.] EXECUTIVE FROM 1776 TO 1786. 277 

From the President of Congress to Gov. Livingston. 

Philadelphia, March 23, 1781. 
Sir, — Your Excellency will receive herewith en- 
closed two acts of Congress of the 16th and 23d inst., 
directing that all debts liquidated in or contracted for 
specie value, shall be paid in specie or other money 
equivalent, according to the current exchange compared 
with specie. Also recommending to the several states 
to amend their laws making the bills of credit emitted 
under the authority of Congress a legal tender, so that 
such bills shall not be a legal tender in any other man- 
ner than at their current value compared with gold and 
silver. But what will more particularly claim the at- 
tention of your legislature as of great importance, is the 
requisition for six millions of dollars, that is, one million 
and an half to be paid quarterly, the first quarterly pay- 
ment to be made on the first day of June next, the 
quota of each state being apportioned in the enclosed 
act, and payment to be made on this requisition, as also 
the several others therein referred to, in gold or silver, 
or bills emitted by any of the states whatever, in 
pursuance of the resolutions of the 18th of March, 
1780. 

This assessment is not to be considered as the pro- 
portion of any state, but being paid, is to be adjusted 
and settled with interest in future upon equitable 
principles in the manner expressed in the act. It 
is with reluctance that Congress are compelled to make 
this requisition, but the absolute necessity of the case 



278 CORRESPONDENCE OF THE NEW JERSEY [1781. 

will appear so obvious that we presume the respective 
States will yield a ready and cheerful compliance there- 
with to the utmost of their power. 

I have the honor to be, with great esteem and res- 
pect, your Excellency's most obed't and most humble 
servant, 

SAM. HUNTINGTON, President. 
His Excellency, Governor Livingston. 



From the President of Congress to Governor 
Livingston. 

^ Philadelphia, May 14th, 1781. 

Sir, — The United States in Congress have this day 
received intelligence of so alarming a nature that they 
think it their indispensable duty immediately to forward 
it to you ; and at the same time to assure you that upon 
a serious review of public affairs they are convinced 
that unless the several states immediately and punctu- 
ally comply with the acts and requisitions of Congress, 
the worst of consequences must ensue. 

Had the states paid due attention to the act of 18th 
March 1780, and complied with the requisition of the 
26th August, the quarter-master would have been in 
capacity to do his duty and to have forwarded the sup- 
plies which the states were called upon to furnish by 
the act of the 4th November. But as that has not 
been done, the states must now not only furnish the 
supphes, but they must also forward them to the places 
where they are wanted. For this purpose I enclose an 



1781.] EXECUTIVE FROM 1776 TO 1786. 279 

earnest recommendation passed this day upon receipt of 
the intelligence above mentioned, and flatter myself 
that from the necessity of the case your state will 
strain every nerve and exert every power to send 
forward the supplies and prevent the fatal events which 
must otherwise inevitably ensue. 

I have the honor to be, with the highest respect, sir, 
your most obedient, humble servant, 

SAM. HUNTINGTON, President. 
His Excellency, Governor Livingston. 



Frotn Abraham Clark to the Chairman of the Joint 

Meeting. 

Princeton, May 24th, 1781. 

Sir, — My long and steady attendance in Congress 
for sixteen months past, makes it necessary for a relax- 
ation of my mind and restoration of my health, that I 
retire for some time at least, and if agreeable to the 
legislature I wish it may be to the end of my present 
delegation, and that my resignation may be accepted, 
which this is intended to solicit. 

By my absence there will be but two members 
remaining, and they mean to attend only one at a time; 
this in the course of a few days will deprive this state 
of a representation unless an appointment of one or 
more members speedily take place. I continued of the 
same opinion as heretofore, that three members are 
preferable to five, provided such can be found who will 
devote their time to that service, and unless they do I 



280 CORRESPONDENCE OF THE NEW JERSEY [1781. 

am clearly of opinion you had better have none, but in 
this I do not suppose that one member is to attend 
alway and the other two alternately, which hath long 
been the case ; few coilstitutions can bear such constant 
attendance, some relaxation is necessary. 

With all due regard and esteem I have the honor to 
be, sir, your obed. and humble servant, 

ABRA. CLARK. 
The Hon. John Stevens, Esq., Chairman of the Joint 

Meeting. 



From General Phil. Dickinson to the Speaker of the 

Assembly. 

Hermitage, May 25th, VS\. 

Sir, — I think it a duty incumbent on me to represent 
to the hon'e the legislature the present wretched, feeble 
contemptible and disgraceful state of our military com- 
panies, praying they would be pleased to take the same 
into consideration, and make such an arrangement as 
will reflect honor on themselves and give security to 
the state. 

I submit to the honorable legislature whether it 
would be improper to form a regiment of artillery, con- 
sisting of two companies, taken from the different 
regiments contiguous to Trenton and Princeton, being 
central and places of security, (for the times,) under the 
command of a Col. or Major, as shall be judged most 
proper; and instead of the Captains and subs, being 
chosen by the companies, have them appointed by the 



1781.] EXECUTIVE FROM 1776 TO 1786. 281 

honorable legislature, as very few of the present officers 
are qualified for such service. I do not mean the least 
reflection on those gentlemen w^ho hold commissions in 
the artillery, but it requires a practical kind of knowl- 
edge which can only be acquired by study and practice. 
We find from experience that artillery give a confidence 
to troops that possess them, and are essentially necessary 
in the field. We have dragged a few heavy iron 
pieces through this war, to this day, wretchedly supplied 
in every respect. Whilst the militia of the neighboring 
states appear in the field with an ample supply of brass 
artillery, the necessary apparatus and camp equipage of 
every kind, the militia of New Jersey, whose services 
in the field have been frequent, and without a comph- 
ment I may say inferior to none on the continent, are 
entitled to an indulgence which, in their opinion, con- 
tributes to their honor and security. I mean a proper 
supply of field artillery with the appendages. 

As this address proceeds from the strongest attach- 
ment to the just and virtuous cause in which we are 
engaged, and the honor and safety of the state are so 
deeply interested in the equipment of our militia, I 
flatter myself this application will meet a favorable 
reception from the honorable legislature. 

I have the honor to be, with great respect, your most 
obed't ser't, 

PHILEMON DICKINSON. 
Hon'e JosiAH Hornblower, Speaker of the Assembly 

of the State of New Jersey. 



282 CORRESPONDENCE OF THE NEW JERSEY [1781. 

From Robert Morris to Governor Livingston. 

Philadelphia, July 25th, 1781. 

Sir, — I had the honor to write you on the 16th inst. 
enclosing a certified copy of the account of your state 
as it stands in the treasury books of the United States. 
I now pray leave to recall your attention to it. It gives 
me very great pain to learn that there is a pernicious idea 
prevalent among some of the states that their accounts 
are not to be adjusted with the continent. Such an idea 
cannot fail to spread listless langour over all our opera- 
tions; to suppose this expensive war can be carried on 
without joint and strenuous efforts is beneath the wisdom 
of those who are called to the high offices of legislation. 
Those who inculcate maxims which tend to relax their 
efforts most certainly injure the common cause, what- 
ever may be the motives which inspire their conduct. 
If once such an opinion is admitted, those states who do 
least and charge most, will derive the greatest benefit 
and endure the smallest evils. 

Your Excellency must perceive that shameless inac- 
tivity must take place of that noble emulation which 
ought to pervade and animate the whole Union. It is my 
particular duty, sir, while I remind my fellow-citizens 
of those tasks which it is incumbent on them to per- 
form, to remove if I can every impediment which lies in 
the way, or which may have been raised by disaffection, 
self-interest or mistake. I take therefore this early 
opportunity to assure you that all the accounts of the 
several states with the United States shall be speedily 



1781.] EXECUTIVE FROM 1776 TO 1786. 283 

liquidated if I can possibly effect it, and my efforts for 
that purpose shall be unceasing. I make this assurance 
in the most solemn manner, and I entreat the conse- 
quences of a contrary assertion may be most seriously 
weighed and considered before it is made or believed. 

These accounts naturally divide themselves into two 
considerable branches, viz. those which are previous 
and those which are subsequent to the Resolutions of 
Congress of the 18th March 1780. The former must 
be adjusted as soon as proper officers can be found and 
appointed for the purpose, and proper principles estab- 
lished, so as that they may be liquidated in an equitable 
manner. I say, sir, in an equitable manner, for I am 
determined that justice shall be rule of my conduct as 
far as the measure of abilities which the Almighty has 
been pleased to bestow shall enable me to distinguish 
between right and wrong. I shall never permit a 
doubt that the states will do what is right, neither will 
I ever believe that any one of them can expect to 
derive advantage from doing what is wrong. It is by 
being just to individuals, to each other, to the Union, to 
all, by generous grants of solid revenue, and by adopting 
energetic measures to collect that revenue, and not by 
complainings, vauntings or recriminations, that these 
states must expect to establish their independence and 
rise into power, consequence and grandeur. I speak to 
your Excellency with freedom, because it is my duty so 
to speak, and because I am convinced that the language 
of plain sincerity is the only pi-oper language to the first 
magistrate of a free community. 



284 CORRESPONDENCE OF THE NEW JERSEY [1781. 

The accounts I have mentioned as subsequent to the 
resolutions of the 18th March 1780, admit of an immedi- 
ate settlement. The several states have all the necessary 
materials ; one side of this account consists of demands 
made by resolutions of Congress long since forw^arded ; 
the other must consist of the compliances with those 
demands. This latter part I am not in capacity to 
state, and for that reason I am to request the earliest 
information which the nature of things will permit of 
the moneys, supphes, transportation, &c., which have 
been paid, advanced or furnished by your state in order 
that I may know what remains due. The sooner full 
information can be obtained, the sooner shall we know 
what to rely on and how to do equal justice to those 
who have contributed and those who have not, to those 
who have contributed at one period and those who 
have contributed at another. I enclose you an account 
of the specific supplies demanded of your state as 
extracted from the journals of Congress, though without 
any mention of what has been done in consequence of 
those resolutions, because as I have already observed, 
your Excellency will be able to discover the balance 
much better than I can, 

I am further to entreat sir, that I may be favored with 
copies of the several acts passed in your state since the 
18th March 1780 for the collection of taxes and fur- 
nishing supplies or other aids to the United States, the 
manner in which such acts have been executed, the 
time which may have been necessary for them to ope- 
rate, and the consequences of their operation. T must 



1781.] EXECUTIVE FROM 1776 TO 1786. 285 

also pray to be informed of so much of the internal 
policy of your state as relates to the laying, assessing, 
levying and collecting of taxes. I beg leave to assure 
your Excellency that I am not prompted either by an 
idle curiosity or by any wish to discover what prudence 
would dictate to conceal ; 'tis necessary I should be in- 
formed of these things, and I take the plain, open 
candid method of acquiring information. 

To palliate or conceal any evils or disorders in our 
situation can answer no good purpose ; they must be 
known before they can be cured, we must also knov/ 
what resources can be brought forth that we may pro- 
portion our efforts to our means and our demands to 
both. It is necessary we should be in a condition to 
prosecute the war with care before we can expect to 
lay down our arms with security, before we can treat 
of peace honorably, and before we can conclude it with 
advantage. I feel myself fittened at every moment 
and embarrassed in every operation, from my ignorance 
of our actual state and of what is reasonably to be 
asked or expected. Yet when I consider our zeal, 
wealth and numbers, and when I compare them with 
those of other countries, I feel a thorough conviction 
that we may do much more than we have yet done and 
with more care to ourselves than we have yet felt, pro- 
vided we adopt the proper mode of revenue and expen- 
diture. Your Excellency's good sense will anticipate 
my observation on the necessity of being informed what 
moneys are in your treasury, and what sums you expect 
to have there, as also of the times they must probably 



286 CORRESPONDENCE OF THE NEW JERSEY [1781. 

be brought in. In addition to this I must pray you to 
communicate the several appropriations. 

A misfortune pecuhar to America requires that I 
entreat your Excellency to undertake one more task, 
which perhaps is far from being the least difficult. 'Tis, 
sir, that you will write very fully as to the amount of 
the several paper currencies now circulating in your 
state, the probable increase or decrease of each, and 
the respective rates of depreciation. 

Having now stated the several communications which 
are most indispensable, let me entreat of your Excel- 
lency's goodness that they may be made as speedily as 
possible, to the end I may be early prepared with those 
propositions which, from a view of all the circumstan- 
ces, may be most likely to extricate us from our present 
difficulties. I am also to entreat that you will inform 
me when your legislature is to meet ; my reason for 
making this request is, that any proposals to be made 
to them may arrive in season for their attentive delibe- 
ration. 

I know that I give you much trouble, but I also know 
that it will be pleasing to you because the time and the 
labor will be expended in the service of your country. 
If, sir, my feeble but honest effiDrts should open to us 
the prospect of American glory, if we should be able to 
look forward to a period, when, supported by solid reve- 
nue and resources, this war should have no other dura- 
tion or extent than the wisdom of Congress might 
allow ; when its object should be the honor and not the 
independence of our country ; if with these fair views 



1781.] EXECUTIVE FROM 1776 TO 1786. 287 

the states should be roused, excited, animated in the 
pursuit, and unitedly determining to be in that happy 
situation, find themselves placed there by the very de- 
termination ; — if, sir, these things should happen soon, 
the reflection that your industry has principally contri- 
buted to effect them, would be the rich reward of your 
toils, and give to your best feehngs their amplest grati- 
fication. 

I have the honor to be, your Excellency's most obe- 
dient and humble servant, 

ROB^ MORRIS, 

S. J. of Finance. 
His Excellency, the Governor and Commander-in-chief 
of the state of New Jersey. 



From Robert Morris to Governor Livingston. 

Office of Finances, August 22, 1781. 

Sir, — I have already in a former letter forwarded to 
your Excellency an account of the specific suppHes 
which Congress had demanded from your state. It 
now becomes my duty again to press for a compliance 
with those demands. 

The exigencies of the service require immediate at- 
tention ; we are on the eve of the most active operations, 
and should they be in any wise retarded by the want 
of necessary supplies, the most unhappy consequences 
may follow. Those who may be justly chargeable with 
neglect will have to answer for it to their country, to 
their allies, to the present generation, and to all pos- 



288 CORRESPONDENCE OF THE NEW JERSEY [1781. 

terity. I hope, entreat, expect the utmost possible 
efforts on the part of your state, and I confide in your 
Excellency's prudence and vigor to render those efforts 
effectual. I beg to know most speedily, sir, what sup- 
plies are collected, and at what places, as also the time 
and places at which the remainder are to be expected. 
I cannot express to you my solicitude on this occa- 
sion. 

My declaration to Congress when I entered upon 
administration, will prevent the blame of ill accidents 
from lighting upon me, even if I was less attentive than 
I am ; but it is impossible not to feel most deeply on 
occasions where the greatest objects may be impaired 
or destroyed by indolence or neglect. I must, there- 
fore, again reiterate my requests, and while I assure you 
that nothing but the urgency of our affairs would ren- 
der me thus importunate, I nmst also assure you, that 
while those affairs continue so urgent, I must continue 
to importune. 

With all possible respect I have the honor to be your 
Excellency's most obedient and humble servant, 

ROBi^ MORRIS. 
His Excellency, the Governor of N, Jersey. 



From Abraham Clark, Delegate to Congress, to the 
Speaker of the Asseinhly. 

Philadelphia, Oct. 23d, 1781. 
Sir,— The instructions of the legislature respecting 
the western lands, and Indiana claims, &c., have been 



1781.] EXECUTIVE FROM 1776 TO 1786. 289 

received and attended to. The cession of Virginia and 
the Indiana claim, &c., are before a Committee who 
have not yet reported. The few states at present rep- 
resented in Congress will render any proceeding in this 
business difficult if not impracticable ; a determination 
cannot be had without a fuller representation. 

With regard to a division of the Islands and Bars in 
Delaware Bay and River, I beg leave, with all due 
deference to the opinion of the legislature, to propose to 
your consideration, whether it will not be best to apply 
to the legislatures of Pennsylvania and Delaware for 
such a division previous to any apphcation for the ap- 
pointment of commissioners. A settlement by commis- 
sioners agreeable to the confederation will be attended 
with a large expense, when in all probability the busi- 
ness can be effected by the legislatures with little, if any. 
Mr. McKean assures me the legislature of Delaware 
will cheerfully come into the settlement you propose, 
they are sensible of the necessity of the measure ; he 
informs me their grant takes in all the islands in Dela- 
ware Bay, but thinks they will notwithstanding divide 
with us. I do not remember the bounds of the grant 
to New Jersey, so far as may respect the islands, and 
have never seen those of Pennsylvania and Delaware. 
With regard to Pennsylvania, if a settlement can be 
effected by acts of the legislature, it will be the most 
cheap and expeditious method, and I cannot yet find 
there will be any objection to it here ; it can at least 
be proposed to the legislature; but those applications 
your delegates are not empowered to make. I have 

19 



290 CORRESPONDENCE OF THE NEW JERSEY [1781. 

conversed with all my colleagues upon this subject, 
(except Dr. Witherspoon, who hath just made his ap- 
pearance,) and find we all concur in opinion, but we 
all are equally at a loss for the meaning of the words, 
" Saving and reserving to all persons their legal and 
equitable claims;'' as in the preceding words you claim 
all such islands and bars as lie between the Jersey shore 
and the main channel of Delaware Bay and River, with 
the rights of soil and jurisdiction. In the grant to 
New Jersey both soil and jurisdiction are granted ; the 
soil is become the property of the West Jersey Proprie- 
tors, that is, all such land as is within the limits ; those 
limits being settled, I suppose no person can have a 
legal claim within the same except under the Proprie- 
tors, and it can hardly be supposed the legislature meant 
to countenance any claim under Pennsylvania or Dela- 
ware within such bounds, though the words equitable 
claims seems to hold up such an idea in favor of long- 
possession. If this is intended, nothing short of laws 
in the respective states can be binding ; commissioners 
can have nothing to do with the private rights of indivi- 
duals in cases like these. 

If it should be the pleasure of the legislature to make 
any proposals to Pennsylvania and Delaware, I think 
the same should be pointed out with precision, or at 
least such precision pointed out to such as may be em- 
powered to negotiate the business. Might I give my 
opinion, I should suppose the main channel a proper 
boundary as far as the tide flows ; beyond that, where the 
main channel cannot be ascertained, by depth of water: 



1781.] EXECUTIVE FROM 1776 TO 1786. 291 

islands lying nearest shore of either state to belong to 
such state. As this may only respect jurisdiction, the 
right of soil will require particular attention, in which, 
possibly, respect will be had to possessions of long stand- 
ing, which had in the first acquiring them the appear- 
ance of legality on their side. 

I have the honor to be, with all due respect, sir, your 
obedient and humble servant, 

ABRA. CLARK. 
The hon'ble the Speaker of Assembly. 



From the President of Congress to Governor 
Livingston. 

PhUadelphia, Oct. 31st, 1781. 
Sir, — Your Excellency will receive herewith inclosed 
a Proclamation, recommending to the several states 
that the thirteenth day of December next, be set apart 
as a day of Thanksgiving and Prayer. 

I have the honor to be, with the greatest respect, 
your obedient and most humble servant, 

THOS. MCKEAN, President. 
His Excellency, Governor Livingston. 

PROCLAMATION. 

Whereas, It hath pleased Almighty God, the Father 
of Mercies, remarkably to assist and support the United 
States of America in their important struggle for lib- 
erty, against the long-continued efforts of a powerful 
nation, it is the duty of all ranks to observe and thank- 



292 CORRESPONDENCE OF THE NEW JERSEY [1781. 

fully acknowledge the interpositions of his Providence 
in their behalf: — Through the whole of the contest, 
from its first rise to this time, the influence of Divine 
Providence may be clearly perceived in many signal 
instances, of which we mention but a few : — 

In revealing the counsels of our enemies, when the 
discoveries were seasonable and important, and the 
means seemingly inadequate or fortuitous. 

In preserving and even improving the union of the 
several states, on the breach of which our enemies 
placed their greatest dependence, — 

In increasing the number and adding to the zeal and 
attachment of the friends of liberty, — 

In granting remarkable deliverances and blessings 
with the most signal success, when affairs seemed to 
have the most discouraging appearance, — 

In raising up for us a most powerful and generous 
ally in one of the first of European Powers, — 

In confounding the counsels of our enemies, and suf- 
fering them to pursue such measures as have most 
directly contributed to frustrate their own desires and 
expectations : above all — 

In making their extreme cruelty to the inhabitants of 
those states, when in their power, and their savage de- 
vastation of property the very means of cementing our 
Union, and adding vigor to every effort in opposition to 
them ; and as we cannot help leading the good people 
of these states to a retrospect on the events which have 
taken place since the beginning of the war, so we may 
recommend in a particular manner to their observation 



1781.] EXECUTIVE FROM 1776 TO 1786. 293 

the goodness of God in the year now drawing to a 
conclusion in which the Confederation of the United 
States has been completed, — 

In which there have been so many instances of 
prowess and success in our armies, particularly in the 
southern states, where, notwithstanding the difficulties 
with which they had to struggle, they have recovered 
the whole country which the enemy had overrun, leav- 
ing them only a post or two on or near the sea,— 

In which we have been so powerfully and effectually 
assisted by our alUes, while in all the unjust operations, 
the most perfect harmony has subsisted in the alUed 
army : In which there has been so plentiful a harvest, 
and so great abundance of the fruits of the earth of 
every kind, as not only enable us easily to supply the 
wants of our army, but gives comfort and happiness to 
the whole people, — 

And in which, after the success of our allies by sea, 
a general of the first rank with his whole army has 
been captured by the allied forces under the direction 
of our commander-in-chief 

It is therefore recommended to the several states to 
set apart the thirteenth day of December next, to be 
religiously observed as a day of Thanksgiving and 
Prayer ; that all the people may assemble on that day 
with grateful hearts to celebrate the praises of our glo- 
rious Benefactor, to confess our manifold sins, to offer 
up our most fervent supplications to the God of all 
grace, that it may please him to pardon our offences, 
and incline our hearts for the future, to keep all his 



294 CORRESPONDENCE OF THE NEW JERSEY [1781- 

laws, to comfort and relieve all our brethren who are in 
distress or captivity, to prosper our husbandmen, and 
give strength to all engaged in lawful commerce ; to 
impart wisdom and integrity to our counsellors, judg- 
ment and fortitude to our officers and soldiers ; to pro- 
tect and prosper our illustrious ally, and favor our united 
exertions for the speedy estabhshment of a safe, honor- 
able, and lasting peace, to bless our seminaries of learn- 
ing, and cause the knowledge of God to cover the 
earth as the waters cover the seas. 

Done in Congress the 26th day of October, in the 
year of our Lord, one thousand seven hundred 
and eighty-one, and in the sixth year of the 
Independence of America. 

THQS MCKEAN, President. 
Attest, Chs. Thompson, Secretary. 



From Governor Livingston to the Speaktr of the 
Assembly. 

Trenton, November 21st, 1781. 
V Sir, — On my being elected to the government in 
October 1780, I informed the then Assembly by letter 
to the Speaker, after having pointed out how greatly I 
had suffered in the payment of my salary by the depre- 
ciation of the money, that I accepted the appointment 
for the then ensuing year, in confidence that, whatever 
the salary might be, the honorable House would make it 
good. As I never received any answer to the terms of 
the acceptance, I had reason to conclude that their 



1781.] EXECUTIVE FROM 1776 TO 1786. 295 

silence evinced their acquiescence ; and as our legisla- 
tures are annual, unless every succeeding one thinks 
itself bound by the engagements of its predecessors, it 
is certain that all faith in government must necessarily 
be annihilated. And indeed had I made no intimation 
whatever on the subject, I cannot presume that the 
present legislature would think it reasonable that I 
should be paid the nominal sum stipulated, without any 
allowance for the depreciation of the money, which 
would in effect amount to a declaration that my services 
were not worth above four hundred pounds a year, and 
that such salary was a sufficient support for any credit- 
able family. As I can assure the honorable House that 
the augmentation of my fortune was never my object in 
accepting of any office, so neither ought the House to 
expect that, besides a man's time, — especially when he 
devotes the whole of it to the pubhc service, to the 
necessary neglect of his domestic affairs, — he should 
also exhaust his private patrimony. That the money is 
depreciated, sir, is not my fault, but should I be obliged 
to receive it for what it is not, I should nevertheless bear 
the punishment. It is probable that the legislature will 
finally keep its faith respecting its redemption, but that 
avails not me nor any other public officer who does not 
hoard up the money on speculation, but must part with 
it at its current value. To conclude, sir, I rely on the 
honor and justice of the House: I am not sohciting for 
favor, only ask for justice. This is due to every man, 
and that I am persuaded so respectable a body as the 
representatives of the people of this state will deny to 
no man. 



296 CORRESPONDENCE OF THE NEW JERSEY [1781. 

I have the honor to be, with great respect, sir, your 
most humble servant, 

WIL. LIVINGSTON. 
To the honorable the Speaker of the General Assembly 

of the state of New Jersey. 



From the President of Congress to Governor 
Livingston. 

Philadelphia, December 12th, 1781. 
Sir, — Although the present aspect of our public 
affairs is truly favorable, and opens to our view the 
brightest prospects of a glorious peace and the unmo- 
lested possession of the invaluable rights we have nobly 
dared to contend for, yet a relaxation in our exertions 
will not only be disgraceful, but may prove dangerous 
and even fatal to our liberties. Congress on their part 
are determined to prevent both the one and the other. 
By their act of the 10th instant, a copy of which I have 
the honor of inclosing, they call upon the legislature of 
each state in the most pressing manner to complete the 
quota of troops assigned to them. The same act also 
contains several other requisitions, and the whole of 
such evident magnitude and importance as render it 
unnecessary to urge any thing more upon the subject. 
I have the honor, likewise, of transmitting to your 
Excellency a copy of an act of Congress of the 11th 
instant, recommending to the legislature of each state 
to ascertain their number of white inhabitants, as soon 
as practicable. A foundation for equal justice on a 



1781.] EXECUTIVE FROM 1776 TO 1786. 297 

very important occasion being the object they have in 
view in desiring this information, your Excellency and 
the legislature of your state will, do doubt, concur with 
me in opinion that the business should be accomplished 
with all possible accuracy and dispatch. 

I have the honor to be, with great respect, sir, your 
Excellency's obedient and very humble servant, 

JOHN HANSON, Presid't. 
His Excellency, the Governor of New Jersey. 



Address of Congress to the States. 

December 17th, 1781. 
The United States in Congress assembled, to the 
legislatures of the states of New Hampshire, Massa- 
chusetts, Rhode Island and Providence Plantations, 
Connecticut, New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, 
Delaware, Maryland, Virginia, North Carolina, South 
Carolina and Georgia. 

Gentlemen, — We are happy to observe that the 
present year hath been distinguished by the reduction 
of a powerful British garrison in Virginia, and that our 
arms have also been prosperous in other parts of the 
United States. But to infer that our inexorable foe is 
subdued beyond recovery may be attended with ruinous 
consequences. These events will yield but momentary 
advantages unless supported by vigorous measures in 
future. 

From an assurance that peace is best attained by 
preparations for war, and that in the cabinet of nego- 



298 CORRESPONDENCE OF THE NEW JERSEY [1781. 

ciations those arguments carry with them the greatest 
weight which are enforced not only witli a retrospect of 
important victories, but by a well grounded prospect of 
future successes. We have called upon you for eight 
millions of dollars and for your respective deficiency of 
the military establishment. Seven years have nearly 
passed since the sword was first unsheathed. The 
sums expended in so long a period in a just and neces- 
sary war must appear moderate, nor can this demand 
for pecuniary aid be deemed exorbitant by those who 
compute the extent of public exigencies and the propor- 
tion of the requisition to the abilities of the states. 
Suppose not that funds exist for our rehef beyond the 
limits of these states. As the possessions of the citi- 
zens constitute our natural resources, and from a sense 
of their sufficiency the standard of war was erected 
against Great Britain, so on them alone we now rely. 
But even if loans were attainable, their amount would 
be merely commensurate with our ability and inclina- 
tion to repay, and by nothing can both be more satisfac- 
torily evidenced than by a generous exertion amidst the 
languor of public credit. 

Arguing from the former dilatoriness of supphes, the 
enemy after having abandoned serious expectations of 
conquering by arms, anticipate it in imagination from 
the dissolution of our public credit. They cannot, 
however, deny the firmness of the basis of this confed- 
erated country, the fruitfulness of its soil, and the 
industry of its people. 

But the want of money is not the only source of our 



1781.] EXECUTIVE FROM 1776 TO 1786. 299 

difficulties, nor do the enemy gather consolation from 
the state of finance alone. We are distressed by the 
thinness of our battahons, so vulnerable does the bold- 
ness of navigation render the very bosom of these states, 
so dispersed in some parts is the population, and so 
rapid our enemy in transportation, that they seize and 
exhaust large districts before their ravages can be 
checked. The requisition for the completion of your 
battahons is therefore not only reasonable but indispen- 
sable. 

Tardiness in the collection of our troops has con- 
stantly encouraged in the enemy a suspicion that 
American opposition is on the decline. Hence money 
from time to time is poured into the coffers of our 
enemy, and the lender perhaps is allured by the prospect 
of receiving it with an usurious interest, from the spoils 
of confiscation. 

To w^hom, then, rather than yourselves, who are 
called to the guardianship and sovereignty of your 
country, can these considerations be addressed ? Joint 
laborers as we are in the work of independence, duty 
impels us to admonish you of the crisis. We possess 
no funds which do not originate with you ; we can 
command no levies which are not raised under your 
own acts ; well shall we acquit ourselves to the world 
should peace, towards the acquisition of which so illus- 
trious a point hath been gained, now escape our 
embraces by the inadequacy of our army or our treas- 
ure ; for an appeal to this exposition of your affairs well 
demonstrate our watchfulness of your happiness. 



300 CORRESPONDENCE OF THE NEW JERSEY [1781. 

We conjure you to remember what confidence we 
shall establish in the breast of that great monarch who 
has become a party in our political welfare, by a bold, 
energetic display of our ability. 

We therefore trust in your attention and zeal to avail 
yourselves at this important crisis of the glorious advan- 
tages lately obtained by a full compliance with the 
requisitions of men and money which we have made to 
you, the necessity of which hath been pointed out to 
us by the maturest consideration on the present circum- 
stances of these United States. 

By order of Congress, 

JOHN HANSON, Presid't. 
State of New Jersey. 



From Abraham Clark to the Speaker of Assembly. 

Philadelphia, December 17th, 1781. 
Sir, — Your favor of the 10th tome, and of the 15th 
to the Delegates, enclosing your instructions, were re- 
ceived yesterday by Mr. Covenhoven. The instructions 
were laid before Congress, and the matters therein urged 
are referred to a committe, and will be duly attended to. 
Upon receiving the instructions relative to the islands 
in the bay and river Delaware, the apphcations we 
were directed to make we all understood was for a set- 
tlement of boundaries agreeable to the confederation ; 
and being informed by the delegates of Pennsylvania 
and Delaware that such an expensive mode of settle- 
ment might be avoided, as their states would gladly 



1781.] EXECUTIVE FROM 1776 TO 1786. 301 

come into the measure. This occasioned our delay at 
that time, and also my letter at the first meeting of the 
Legislature. Hearing nothing from you for some 
weeks, we determined to proceed on the business, which 
I took the liberty to inform you of by letter ; but in 
taking the business up we found ourselves at a loss to 
discover the real wish and intentions of the Legislature, 
as the applications directed were different from the 
mode pointed out in the confederation for settling 
boundaries. This, Mr. Houston engaged to inform you 
of, we never once conceived a thought that you doubted 
your right to the islands contiguous to our shore until 
meeting with Mr. Treat a few days ago, he informed 
me of your doubts in that respect, which are confirmed 
by your letter of the 10th. 

We shall at all times pay due respect and attention 
to any instructions we may be charged with, at the 
same time think it our indispensable duty to advise you 
of the difficulties that may probably arise in the prose- 
cution. If a title to the islands and a line of jurisdic- 
tion is all that the legislature had in view, they will, I 
presume, be satisfied by Covenhoven that the business 
can only be effected by joint concurrence of the states 
concerned, without any interference of Congress. It 
is however suggested that your real designs were to 
establish a precedent for Congress to dispose of all 
unappropriated crown lands in the several states. This 
I cannot believe was had in contemplation by you, as 
we had no intimations of it, but whether true or false 
will be a most effectual bar to our obtaining any grant 
for the following reasons. Most of the states having 



302 CORRESPONDENCE OF THE NEW JERSEY [1781. 

within their claims large quantities of unappropriated 
lands, will not agree that Congress shall exercise such a 
right unless it be over such lands as shall be ceded, and 
if our application should be considered as a cession of 
our claims to the islands, they will, if they do any thing, 
sell them at full value, in which we shall by your appli- 
cation lose what we have a just right to by the law of 
nations, and settle no precedent to our advantage, which 
you may be assured will be carefully guarded against. 
Congress is now represented by only nine states, the 
jealousies that will arise on an appUcation for a grant 
will influence most of the states to oppose it on every 
political principle. Seven states are necessary to con- 
cur in every question of the smallest moment, in all 
wherein there is any appropriation nine states must 
concur. What chance have we then in the present 
case 1 None that I can see but the loss of what we 
have an indubitable right to, and which we have in our 
power to hold the peaceable possession of. 

As the business before Congress will not at present, 
and for some days to come admit of a consideration of 
this matter, we can readily comply with Mr. Covenho- 
ven's desire to let the matter rest for a few days, till you 
can be informed of the above and such other matters 
relative thereto as he will be able to communicate. 

I have the honor to be, with all due respect, sir, your 
obed't humble serv't, 

ABRA. CLARK. 
Hon'e John Mehelm, Esq., Speaker of the Assembly. 

P. S. I wish this representation might be communi- 
cated to the Council. 



1782.] EXECUTIVE FROM 1776 TO 1786. 303 

Circular. 

Philadelphia, January 23d, 1782. 

Sir, — Although it may be somewhat out of my 
provmce to address your Excellency on a subject not 
immediately of a military nature, yet I consider it so 
nearly connected with, and so essential to, the opera- 
tions under my direction, that I flatter myself that my 
interference will not be deemed impertinent. 

Upon applying to the superintendent of finances to 
know how far I might depend upon him for the pay, 
feeding and clothing of the army for the current year, 
he very candidly laid open to me the state of our 
moneyed affairs and convinced me, that although the 
assistances we had derived from abroad were consider- 
able, yet they would be by no means adequate to our 
expenses. He informed me further that to make up 
the deficiency, the states had been called upon by Con- 
gress for eight millions of dollars for the service of the 
year 1782, and showed me the copy of a circular letter 
from himself to the several legislatures, in which he 
had so fully and clearly pointed out the necessity of 
a compliance with the requisition, that it is needless 
far me to say more on that head, than that I entirely 
concur with him in opinion so far as he has gone into 
the matter. But there are other reasons which could 
not be so well known to him as to me, as having come 
under my observation, and which therefore I shall take 
the liberty to mention. 

Your Excellency cannot but remember the ferment 
into which the whole army was thrown twelve months 



304 CORRESPONDENCE OF THE NEW JERSEY [1782. 

ago for the v/ant of pay and a regular supply of cloth- 
ing and provisions, and with how much difficulty they 
were brought into temper by a partial supply of the 
two first and a promise of more regular suppUes of all 
in future. Those promises the soldiery now begin to 
claim, and although now we shall be able to satisfy 
them tolerably with respect to clothing, and perfectly 
with regard to provisions, (if the financier is enabled 
to comply with his contracts,) yet there is no prospect 
of obtaining pay, until a part of the money required 
of the states can be brought into the public treasury. 
You cannot conceive the uneasiness which arises from 
the want of so essential an article as money, and the 
real difficulties in which the officers in particular, are 
involved on this account. The favorable aspect of our 
affairs, and the hopes that matters are in a train to 
afford them relief, contribute to keep them quiet, but I 
cannot answer for the effects of a disappointment. 

Enabling the Financier to comply with his contracts 
is a matter of the utmost consequence, the very exist- 
ence of the army depends upon it. Should he fail in 
his payments, the contract ceases, and there is no 
alternative left but to disband or live upon the seizure 
of the neighboring property. The saving to the public 
by feeding an army by contract, is too well known to 
need any illustration, and that alone ought to be a 
sufficient inducement to the states to find the means of 
adhering to it. 

It will perhaps be urged that the sum called for is 
immense, and beyond the abihty of the country to 



1782.] EXECUTIVE FROM 1776 TO 1786. 305 

pay. There is one plain answer to that objection, 
should it be made. It is, if the war is carried on, a 
certain expense must be increased, and that such ex- 
pense must be drawn from the people, either by a par- 
tial, cruel, and I may say, illegal seizure of that pro- 
perty, which lays most convenient to the army, or by a 
regular and equitable tax in money or specific articles. 
Money, if it can be procured, is to be preferred, because 
it is neither liable to waste, nor is it expensive in the 
mode of collection or transportation ; whereas, I think 
I may venture to say, that a great proportion of the 
specific articles have been wasted, after the people have 
furnished them ; and that the transportation alone of 
what have reached the army, has in numberless instan- 
ces cost more than the value of the articles themselves. 

To bring this war to a speedy and happy conclusion, 
must be the fervent wish of every lover of his country, 
and sure I am that no means are so likely to effect 
this, as vigorous preparations for another campaign. 
Whether then we consult our true interests, substantial 
economy, or sound policy, we shall find that relaxation 
and languor are of all things to be avoided. Conduct 
of that kind on our part, will produce fresh hopes and 
new exertions on that of the enemy ; whereby the war, 
which has already held beyond the general expectation, 
may be protracted to such a length, that the people, 
groaning under the burden of it, and despairing of suc- 
cess, may think any change a change for the better. 

I will close with a request that your Excellency will 
be good enough to take the first opportunity of laying 

20 



306 CORRESPONDENCE OF THE NEW JERSEY [1782- 

these my sentiments before the legislature of your state. 
From the attention they have been pleased to pay to 
any former requisitions or representations of mine, I am 
encouraged to hope that the present, which is equally 
important with any I have ever made, will meet with a 
favorable reception. 

I have the honor to be, with great respect, your Ex- 
.cellency's most obed't and h'ble serv't, 

GO WASHINGTON. 

His Excellency, Governor Livingston. 



From General Washington to Governor Livingston. 

Head-quarters, Philadelphia, Jan. 31, l'i82. 

Sir, — I have the honor of transmitting herewith, ac- 
curate returns of the number of men now in service 
from your state, in order that measures may be taken 
for completing the regiments to the full estabhshment, 
agreeably to the resolutions of Congress of the 10th of 
December. I cannot omit so favorable an occasion of 
expressing to your Excellency my sentiments on this 
subject, and of entreating in the most earnest manner, 
that there may be a speedy, pointed and effectual com- 
pliance with those requisitions. 

It will, I flatter myself, be unnecessary to recapitulate 
all the arguments I made use of in the circular letter I 
had the honor to address to the governors of the seve- 
ral states, at the close of the campaign of 1780, in 
which it must be remembered I took the liberty to urge, 
from the knowledge I had of our affairs and a series of 



1782.] EXECUTIVE FROM 1776 TO 1786. 307 

experience, the policy, the expediency, the necessity of 
recruiting the army, as the only probable means of 
bringing the war to a speedy and happy conclusion. If 
those arguments had any influence at that time, if the 
consequent exertions were crowned with success, if the 
present crisis exhibits new and more forcible induce- 
ments for still greater efforts, let me point your Excel- 
lency and the legislature to those considerations, and 
especially let me recommend in the warmest terms, that 
all the fruits of the success which have been obtained 
the last campaign may not be thrown away by an in- 
glorious winter of languor and inactivity. 

However, at this advanced stage of the war it might 
seem to be an insult on the understanding to suppose a 
long train of reasoning necessary, to prove that a res- 
pectable force in the field is essential to the estabhsh- 
ment of our liberties and independence ; yet as I am 
apprehensive the prosperous issue of the combined ope- 
ration in Virginia, may have (as is too common in such 
cases) the pernicious tendency of lulHng the country into 
a lethargy of inactivity and security ; and as I feel my 
own reputation, as well as the interest, the honor, the 
glory and happiness of my country intimately concerned 
in the event, I will ask the indulgence to speak the more 
freely on those accounts, and to make some of the ob- 
servations which the present moment seem to suggest. 

That the broken and perplexed state of the enemy's 
affairs, and the successes of the last campaign on our 
part, ought to be a powerful incitement to vigourous pre- 
parations for the next ; that unless we strenuously exert 



308 CORRESPONDENCE OF THE NEW JERSEY [1782. 

ourselves to profit by these successes, we shall not only 
lose all the solid advantages that might be derived from 
them, but we shall become contemptible in our own 
eyes, in the eyes of our enemies, in the opinion of pos- 
terity and even in the estimation of the whole world ; 
which will consider us as a nation unworthy of pros- 
perity because we know not how to make a right use 
of it ; that although we cannot by the best concerted 
plans, absolutely command success ; although the race 
is not always to the swift, or the battle to the strong, 
without presumptuously waiting for miracles to be 
wrought in our favor, it is our indispensable duty 
with the deepest gratitude to Heaven for the past, and 
humble confidence in its smiles on our future operations, 
to make use of all the means in our power for our de- 
fence and security. That this period is particularly 
important; because no circumstances since the com- 
mencement of the war have been so favorable for 
the recruiting service as the present, and because it is 
to be presumed from the increase of population and the 
brilHant prospects before us, it is in our power to com- 
plete the army, before the opening of the campaign ; 
that however flattering these prospects may be, much 
still remains to be done, which cannot probably be 
effected, unless the army is recruited to its establishment ; 
and consequently the continuance or termination of 
the war seem principally to rest on the vigor and decision 
of the states in this interesting point. And finally, that 
it is our first object of policy, under every supposable or 
possible case, to have a powerful army in the field, for 



1782.] EXECUTIVE FROM 1776 TO 1786. 309 

we must suppose the enemy are either disposed " to 
prosecute the war or enter into a negotiation for peace." 
There is no other alternative; the former position, a 
respectable army becomes necessary to counteract the 
enemy and to prevent the accumulating expenses of a 
lingering war ; on the latter, nothing but a decidedly 
superior force can enable us boldly to proclaim our 
rights, and dictate the law at the pacification. So that 
whatever may be the disposition of the enemy, it is 
evidently our only interest and economy to act libe- 
rally, and exert ourselves greatly during the present 
winter to cut off at once all the expenses of the war by 
putting a period to it. 

And soon might that day arrive, soon might we hope 
to enjoy the blessings of peace, if we could see again 
the same animation in the cause of our country inspire 
every breast ; the same passion for freedom and military 
glory impel our youth to the field, the same disinterest- 
ed patriotism pervade every rank of men, as was con- 
spicuous at the commencement of this glorious revolu- 
tion. And I am persuaded only some great occasion 
was wanting, such as the present moment exhibits, to 
kindle the latent spark of that patriotic fire into a gen- 
erous flame ; to rouse again the unconquerable spirit of 
liberty, which has sometimes seemed to slumber for 
awhile, into the full vigor of action. 

I cannot conclude this letter without expressing my 
full expectation that the several states, animated with 
the noblest principles, and convinced of the policy of 
complying faithfully with the requisitions, will be only 



310 CORRESPONDENCE OF THE NEW JERSEY [1782. 

emulous which shall be foremost in furnishing its 
quota of men, that the calculation of the numbers 
wanted to fill the deficiency, may be so ample, as, 
(allowing for all the casualties and deductions) will be 
sufficient certainly to complete the battalions ; that the 
measures for this purpose may be so explicit, pointed 
and energetic, as will inevitably furnish the recruits in 
season ; and that such checks may be established to 
prevent imposition in the quality of the men, that no 
recruits may be accepted, but those who are in fact 
able-bodied and effective. Should any of a different 
description be sent to the army they must be rejected, 
the expenses thrown away, and the service injured, 
though others are required to fill their places ; for it is 
only deceiving ourselves with having a nominal instead 
of a real force and consuming the pubUc provisions and 
clothing to no effect, by attempting to impose decrepit 
or improper men or boys upon us as soldiers. 

With the highest respect I have the honor to be, sir, 
your Excellency's most obedient, humble servant, 

G^ WASHINGTON. 

His Excellency, Governor Livingston. 



From General Washington to Governor Livingston. 

Head-Quarters, Philadelphia, March 5th, 1782. 

Sir, — The operations of the next campaign being 

contingent, depending in a great degree upon measures 

which are not within my controul, and very much upon 

the plans of the enemy and their efforts to carry them 



1782.] EXECUTIVE FROM 1776 TO 1786. 311 

into execution, it is impossible for me at this time to 
say whether any or how many miUtia the states in this 
part of the continent may be called upon to furnish for 
the purposes of the ensuing campaign ; but as I per- 
suade myself it is the wish of every one of them to see 
a vigorous offensive plan prosecuted, with a view of ter- 
minating the war honorably and speedily ; it becomes 
my duty to inform that, the continental force (admitting 
the battalions should be completed) aided by any auxil- 
iary troops that I have any expectations of, is totally 
inadequate to the first and great object which presents 
itself to our view ; and therefore it may be essential to 
my future plan that the executive powers of the states 
should be (if they are not so already) vested with suffi- 
cient authority to call forth, properly equipped, such a 
body of militia as the exigencies of the service may 
require ; — the demand will not be made but in case of 
necessity, and will be postponed as long as possible. 
The consequences therefore of the want of such powers, 
or of the delay occasioned by caUing an Assembly, in 
such an emergency might prove fatal to our operations, 
and injurious to our cause. 

I need not add how much it is my wish and desire, 
and how much the public interest will be promoted by 
it, that the continental regiments should be completed — 
every man of which these are deficient will add to the 
draughting and doubly to the pubhc expenses — while 
these troops will not be so competent to the purposes 
for which they are wanted, to say nothing of the disad- 
vantages which agriculturers and manufacturers will 



y 



312 CORRESPONDENCE OF THE NEW JERSEY [1782. 

sustain by having the laborers and artisans called off 
from their work. 

I would beg leave to suggest that the longer term the 
mihtia can be drawn out for, the more beneficial and 
less expensive will their services be ; and that, in case 
of a siege, they ought to be engaged during the con- 
tinuance of it, or until relieved by an equal number, so 
that the operating strength may not be diminished at a 
critical moment, when it may be most wanted. 

I have the honor to be, with the greatest respect and 
esteem, your Excellency's most obedient servant, 

G^ WASHINGTON. 
His Excellency, Governor Livingston. 

From General Washington to Governor Livingston, 

Head-Quarters, May 4th, 1782. 

Sir, — I find myself arrived at that period at which I 
hoped to have seen the battaUons of the several states 
completed to their full estabhshment, in conformity to 
the requisitions of Congress of December last. 

From the returns of recruits which I have been able 
to obtain, I am very sorry to observe that my expecta- 
tions in this respect are almost totally disappointed. 

All my accounts from Europe concur in declaring 
that the British king and ministry are still determined 
to prosecute the war. It becomes therefore our decided 
duty to be prepared for these hostile intentions in what- 
ever way they are to be carried into execution, to do 
which our utmost exertions will be called for. You 



1782.] EXECUTIVE FROM 1776 TO 1786. 313 

will suffer me therefore to intreat that if your state have 
any expectations from the military operations of this 
season, not another moment may be lost in providing 
for and carrying into most effectual execution the full 
completion of their battalions. It is scarcely necessary 
to inform you that on this expectation all my calcula- 
tions must be formed, and on this event will depend all 
the hopes of the ensuing campaign. 

My intelligence of the actual aid which we may 
expect from our allies, is not so explicit as to lead me to 
decide absolutely on the mode of operations for the 
campaign, but were our expectations of support from 
that quarter ever so promising, yet from the negligence 
and languor of the states from whence our own exertions 
are to spring, I am not at this day enabled to give any 
assurance of our being prepared to co-operate with our 
allies in any great objects, equal to their expectations or 
our own ability. 

I am sorry to acquaint your Excellency that I have 
the best authority to inform you that the court of France 
is much dissatisfied with this want of vigor in the states, 
and with that disposition which appears willing at 
least, if not desirous, to cast all the burden of the 
American war upon them. Waving the justice and 
impolicy of such a temper (which to me appear very 
conspicuous) how humiUating is the idea of placing 
upon others our dependence for support beyond that 
point which absolute necessity dictates. How discour- 
aging to our aUies, and how dishonorable to ourselves, 
must be our want of vigor and utmost exertion at a 



314 CORRESPONDENCE OF THE NEW JERSEY [1782. 

time when if we are not wanting to ourselves our 
prospects are the fairest that our wishes could extend to. 

I am sorry to find from the proceedings of the several 
states, that their calculations of deficiencies, formed on 
application made to the towns who furnish the men, are 
greatly different from the returns sent from the army. 
I forbear to mention many reasons which might be 
assigned to produce this difference, and which in my 
opinion originate principally within the states, and will 
content myself with this one observation, that should 
the states deceive themselves in this respect and fail to 
furnish the expected force in the field, they will not only 
cast an essential injury on the army, but the unhappy 
consequences of a failure in our military operations will 
reverberate upon themselves, whilst recrimination will 
have no effect towards alleviating our protracted mis- 
fortunes and distress. 

Although money matters are not within the line of 
my duty, yet as they are so intimately connected with 
all military operations, and being lately informed by the 
financier, in answer to some small requisitions on him, 
that he has not yet received one penny in money from 
any one state upon the requisition for the 8,000,000 
dollars, but that on the contrary some states are devising 
ways to draw from him the small sums he has been 
able otherwise to obtain, and that he is now but scarcely 
able to feed the army from hand to mouth :— I cannot 
forbear to express my apprehensions from that quarter ; 
and to urge with all the warmth of zeal and earnestness 
that most pointed and spirited attention of your state to 



1782.] EXECUTIVE FROM 1776 TO 1786. 315 

the actual raising and collecting their proportion of the 
mentioned requisition. Upon the present plan of non- 
compliance to requisitions for men and supplies, let me 
seriously ask your Excellency how is it possible to sup- 
port an army in money or recruits ? how is it possible for 
us to continue the war 1 to what a wretched state must 
we soon be reduced l how dangerous is it to suffer our 
affairs to run at hazard ? and to depend upon contingen- 
cies. To what do the present measures tend, but to the 
utter ruin of that cause which we have so long and so 
nobly supported, and to crush all the fair hopes which the 
present moment places before us, were we only to exert 
the power and abiUties with which Providence has so 
bountifully blessed this country. But if the states will 
not impose, or do not collect and apply, taxes for the 
support of the war, the sooner we make terms the 
better. The longer we continue a feeble and ineffect- 
ual war, the greater will be our distress at the hour of 
submission. For my own part I am fully convinced 
that without the means of execution no officer, who- 
ever he may be, who is placed at the head of the 
military department can be answerable for the success 
of any plans he may propose or agree to. Upon this 
subject I will only add that from past experience and 
present prospects I am persuaded that if the states 
would furnish the supplies agreeable to late requisitions, 
and would suffer the pay, clothing and subsistence of 
the army to go through one common channel, that two 
thirds of their former expenses would be saved, and 
many partialities, discontents and jealousies which 



316 CORRESPONDENCE OF THE NEW JERSEY [1782. 

now subsist would be removed, and an establishment of 
order, regularity and harmony in our public affairs 
would take place, which cannot arise from the present 
disjointed and different systems of finance which are 
adopted by separate states. 

While acting in my military capacity I am sensible 
of the impropriety of stepping into the lines of civil 
polity. My anxiety for th6 general good, and an 
earnest desire to bring this long protracted war to a 
happy issue, — when I hope to retire to that peaceful state 
of domestic pleasure from whence the call of my coun- 
try has brought me to take an active part, and to which 
I most ardently wish a speedy return, — I hope will fur- 
nish my excuse with your Excellency and the legisla- 
ture when I request your pardon for this trespass. 

If I should have occasion for the militia of your 
state, the call will be sudden, and their movements must 
be rapid, otherwise great expense will accrue and dis- 
grace and disappointment will ensue. For these 
reasons I beg leave to recall your Excellency's atten- 
tion to my letter of the 5th March last, and to pray 
most earnestly that every previous arrangement may be 
taken to facilitate their march when requested. 

I have the honor to be, sir, your Excellency's most 
obedient servant, 

GO WASHINGTON. 
His Excellency, Gov'r Livingston. 



1782.] EXECUTIVE FROM 1776 TO 1786. 317 



/ 



From General Washington to Governor Livingston. 



May 8th, 1782. 

Sir, — Since writing the above I have been furnished 
with sundry Enghsh and New York papers containing 
the last intelligence from England, with the debates of 
Parliament upon several motions respecting the Ameri- 
can war. Lest your Excellency may not have been 
favored with so full a sight of these papers as I have 
been, I take the liberty to mention that I have perused 
these debates with great care and attention, with a view 
if possible to penetrate their real design. And upon 
the most mature deliberation I am obliged to declare it 
as my opinion that the measure in all its views, so far as 
it respects America, is merely delusory, having no 
serious intent to admit our independence, but is calcu- 
lated to produce a change of ministers, to quiet tlie 
minds of their own people, and reconcile them to a 
continuance of the war, — and is meant to amuse this 
country with a false idea of peace to draw us off from 
our connection with France, and to lull us into a state 
of security and inactivity, which taking place, the min- 
istry will be left to prosecute the war in other parts of 
the world with greater vigor and effect. 

Your Excellency will permit me on this occasion to 
observe that if even the nation and parliament are 
really in earnest to obtain peace with America, it will 
undoubtedly be wisdom in us to meet them with great 
caution and circumspection, and by all means to keep 
our arms firm in our hands, and instead of relaxing one 



318 CORRESPONDENCE OF THE NEW JERSEY [1782. 

iota in our exertions, rather to spring forward with 
redoubled vigor, that we may take advantage of every 
favorable opportunity, until our wishes are fully obtained. 
No nation ever suffered in treaty by preparing even in 
the hour of negotiation most vigorously for the field. 

The industry which the enemy are using to propa- 
gate these pacific reports is to me a very suspicious 
circumstance, and the eagerness with which the people 
as I am informed are catching at them, is in my opinion 
equally dangerous. 

I am your Excellency's most obed't servant, 

GO WASHINGTON. 
His Excellency, Governor Livingston. 



From Robert Morris to Governor Livingston. 

Office of Finance, July 29th, 1782. 
Sir, — Finding that several states are still in the habit 
of making partial payments to their troops, as well as of 
expending monies for the purchase of clothing, it be- 
comes my duty to inform you that the requisitions for 
the service the current year included both the pay and 
clothing of the continental army. Any payments 
which the several states may think proper to make, or 
any expenditures for clothing or the like, cannot be 
admitted in deduction from the quota assigned them. 
It becomes necessary for many reasons which I will not 
trouble your Excellency with the enumeration of, that 
nothing be received from the states but money. This 
alone can prevent those intricate accounts which hith- 



1782.] EXECUTIVE FROM 1776 TO 1786. 319 

erto have involved every thing in a labarynth of con- 
fusion. Had the states compHed vs^ith the requisitions 
made on them for the current service in any degree 
proportionate either to the magnitude and urgency of 
the occasion, we should ere this have had the pleasure 
of knowing that our army enjoyed all the emoluments 
they have a right to ask for. I take the liberty to add 
that it would be proper to cause accounts to be trans- 
mitted to the Paymaster General as speedily as possible 
of what has been advanced for pay, that he may at 
least prevent a double credit for the same sums. With 
respect to the pay which may have become due anteri- 
orly to the first day of January 1782, it will become a 
part of that debt from the United States, for the funding 
of which revenues will be required from the several 
states, so soon as Congress shall have digested their re- 
lutions on that subject. 

I have on many occasions delivered the sentiments 
contained above to several of the states, as circumstan- 
ces called or occasion required, but it appears necessary 
to make the formal communication to all, and there- 
fore I must pray your Excellency to excuse my repeti- 
tions which may have happened. 

Before I close this letter I must observe, sir, that of 
four millions payable according to the requisitions of 
Congress, by the first instant, I did not receive forty- 
thousand dollars. Judge then of the anticipations 
which were necessary to bring us where we are. Judge 
of the situation in which we are placed ; and be not 
surprised at any consequences which may follow from 



320 CORRESPONDENCE OF THE NEW JERSEY [1782- 

that universal neglect which is alike unaccountable and 
inexcusable. 

I have the honor to be, with very great respect, sir, 
your Excellency's most obedient and humble servant, 

ROBT MORRIS. 
His Excellency, Governor of New Jersey. 



From Robert Morris to Governor Livingston. 

Office of Finance, 30th July, 1782. 
giR^ — I do myself the honor to enclose the extract of a 
letter received from a confidential correspondent in one 
of the United States. The evil there mentioned is of 
so dangerous a nature, that should it prevail in any de- 
grees the consequences may be fatal. I know that the 
selfish spirit there complained of is but too prevalent, 
and it is not very long since I bore my testimony against 
it, from a just apprehension that the safety of our country 
might be thereby endangered. If it is of consequence 
that a war which has cost already so much blood and 
treasure , be safely and honorably concluded, it must be 
vigorously prosecuted. If it is to be vigorously prose- 
cuted, the means must be granted. If the means are 
to be granted, the several states must contribute speedily 
and effectually. If one has a right to prefer local to 
general interests, others have the same right. If one 
exercise that privilege, so may all, and if all do there is 
an end of our efforts. Congress had foreseen the dan- 
ger and called on the states to provide for collecting the 
continental separate from the state taxes. Since this 



1782.] EXECUTIVE FROM 1776 TO 1786. 321 

has not been done perhaps the reasons of the refusal 
may account for the facts stated in the extract. I 
must pray of your Excellency to provide such remedy 
to anything of this sort which may exist in your state, 
as shall be within your power, and that you will urge 
the legislature to make that solid provision which can 
alone prevent it in future. 

I have the honor to be, sir, your Excellency's most 
obedient and humble servant, 

ROB'T MORRIS. 
His Excellency, Governor Livingston. 

[Extract Enclosed.'] 

" The Assembly when they granted a tax for conti- 
nental purposes, direct the collection through the same 
channels in which state taxes are collected ; this in most 
instances makes the same person collector both of the 
state and continental tax, and the executions to enforce 
both the one and the other, issue from the same person, 
viz. the treasurer of the state ; the consequence is that 
a preference will be given to taxes for state purposes ; 
and if no urgent necessity requires issuing executions 
for state taxes, there will be danger of delaying the ex- 
ecution of the continental taxes, and the more popular 
the government is, the greater will their danger be 
increased ; and whenever the same person is in arrear 
on different taxes, he will apply all his collections 
to that which will give him the longest time to col- 
lect in. 

I should not have troubled you on this subject, but I 
21 



322 CORRESPONDENCE OF THE NEW JERSEY [1782. 

see the collectors in this state of the continental taxes 
are, in general, in arrear on every state tax granted 
since 1776, and to my full satisfaction are applying the 
monies collected on the continental taxes to the paying 
arrears of their old state tax, by which means you will 
be postponed to all the state dues, and be defeated of 
yaur just expectation, unless some remedy be imme- 
diately appUed." 



From Abraham Clark to Joseph Cooper, 

Philadelphia, September 16th, 1782. 
Sir, — The legislature of Pennsylvania have ap- 
pointed Judge Bryan, Mr. Bingham, and Mr. Gray, 
Commissioners for dividing the islands and settling the 
jurisdiction of the river Delaware, but have not com- 
pleted their instructions which are now under conside- 
ration. As our legislature will meet this week, they 
will, it is presumed, instruct their commissioners ; which 
appears necessary, as their appointment does not appear 
to convey any power more than obtaining information 
and reporting the same ; this may also be necessary to 
undergo a revision. The business may be easily ac- 
compHshed if two matters can be agreed to. One is 
a reciprocal jurisdiction on the navigable part of the 
Delaware ; this I mentioned to you as in my opinion 
necessary, since which I am told the same sentiments 
prevail here. This is intended to grant jurisdiction 
to each state over vessels belonging to the same, and 



1782.] EXECUTIVE FROM 1776 TO 1786. 323 

over persons going therefrom to the other, w^hile on the 
river. The other matter is the island opposite to Phil- 
adelphia, which I believe will be strongly insisted upon 
to belong to them, and I can see no reason for rejecting 
their claim, as it is of importance to them and none to 
us, unless we should wish to have it purely to injure 
Pennsylvania, without any advantage resulting to New 
Jersey. In this settlement I consider the island as be- 
longing to no state, and the convenience of both must 
be attended to. No difficulty, I believe, will attend the 
division of the other islands ; and I suppose some 
equivalent might be obtained for the island above allu- 
ded to. 

These matters I mention to you to obtain instructions 
thereon from the legislature when they meet, as other- 
wise we should be at a loss how to conduct. 

I hope you will communicate this to Dr. Henderson, 
and consult him previous to any communication to the 
legislature. 

I must inform you that what I have said respecting 
the desires or intentions of Pennsylvania, 1 have not 
learned from the commissioners, but from other gentle- 
men who have conversed with me upon the subject, 
but who, I believe, delivered the sentiments of the 
commissioners. 

Delaware had instructed their delegates respecting 
the islands and jurisdiction of the Delaware, which 
upon examination do not appear to convey powers ne- 
cessary for effecting anything. The proceedings of our 
legislature I have communicated to Governor Dickinson 



324 CORRESPONDENCE OF THE NEW JERSEY [1782. 

who promised to lay the same before the legislature of 
Delaware at their meeting this fall. 
I am, sir, your humble servant, 

ABRA. CLARK. 
Joseph Cooper, Esq. 



From Ahraha?n Clark to the Speaker of the Assembly. 

Philadelphia, September 26th, 1782. 
Sir, — I find myself obliged to mention to your hon- 
orable House, my concern for the present state of the 
old emissions of paper money, as the public in general, 
and Nev/ Jersey in particular, may be greatly affected 
by it. This money I have reason to believe hath been 
purchased by foreigners as a matter of speculation, and 
may one day be demanded of us by the nations to 
which they belong, to redeem as good, upon the suppo- 
sition it was received as such, the contrary of which 
cannot perhaps be proved. This is not all ; New 
Hampshire some how or other collected into their trea- 
sury five millions of dollars more than their quota to 
sink ; Massachusetts and Rhode Island have also a large 
surplusage in their states if not in their treasuries. 
They request that we receive such surplusage crediting 
them either at the rate of forty to one in specie, or at the 
rate the same passed when received, which might be 70 
or 75, and charge such sum in specie at that rate upon 
the delinquent states. Nothing of this kind, though 
attempted, hath been done by Congress, perhaps it 
never may, but while matters rest as at present, a gen- 



1782.] EXECUTIVE FROM 1776 TO 1786. 325 

eral discontent prevails to tiie eastward, so far as to 
threaten a stoppage of taxes on that account. I find 
by the treasury books that New Jersey is credited for 
6,334,335 dollars, paid in and sunk ; exclusive of this 
were 6,196 dollars counterfeit sent back to the law 
officer ; as also 554f | dollars, noted as improper money 
to be sent back. Thus much I thought proper to 
inform of, that the legislature may know how much of 
the quota of our state remains unsunk, in order that 
such further measures may be pursued as the interest 
and circumstances of the state may require. 

I wished to have it in my power to transmit the 
exact state of the pubhc debts already funded, but as 
the accounts now making out are not yet completed, I 
can say no more on that subject than that the domestic 
loans are completed at something upwards of twelve 
millions of specie ; the foreign loans computed at 
twenty-eight millions of livres. I must also take the 
liberty of mentioning a matter which greatly embar- 
rasses Congress, I mean that relative to the half-pay of 
officers. This was engaged by Congress previous to 
the final ratification of the confederation, but not 
agreed to by the number of states, as became necessary 
for such a measure after that event took place. The 
New England states positively refuse a compHance. 
The delegates of New Jersey are also restrained by 
the sense of legislature long since expressed. Five 
states are sufficient to prevent any appropriations of 
money for that purpose, which requires the concurrence 
of nine states. In this affair the disagreeing states do 



326 CORRESPONDENCE OF THE NEW JERSEY [1782. 

do not mean to commit such a breach of public faith 
as to deprive the officers of their just dues ; all desired 
is, that the officers may be referred to their respective 
states to receive their pay, or such other compensation 
as the legislature may judge proper, without making 
the same a continental charge. 

Each state taking upon themselves the satisfying their 
own officers, this will be just in many respects, and I 
beheve will give satisfaction to the officers, for it cannot 
be supposed the legislatures will refuse justice to their 
own citizens ; and by this measure they can secure 
the application of their own money. States which 
have been multiplying their officers and send little or 
no money into the public treasury, wishing to draw 
pensions for their citizens from the other states, will of 
course be opposed to this measure. This subject I 
hope will be duly considered by the legislature, and 
their opinion therein communicated to their delegates. 

The representation of the legislature brought by Col. 
Ellis was presented this morning, and referred to the 
superintendent of finance, who I have requested to 
consider and report thereon as soon as possible. 

I have the honor to be, sir, your obedient, hnmble 
servant, 

ABRA. CLARK. 
Hon'ble John Mehelm, Esq., Speaker of the Assembly. 



1782.] EXECUTIVE FROM 1776 TO 1786. 327 

From Dr. Franklin to Robert Morris. 

Passy, Dec. 14th, 1782. 
Sir, — I received duly your several letters of Sept. 
25th, 27th, 28th, and 30th, October 1st, 5th, 7th, all by 
Capt. Barney, and Oct. 27th since. I immediately made 
the application so strongly pressed by the Congress for 
a loan of four millions dollars. I annexed to my 
memoir the resolves of Congress, with copies and 
extracts of your several letters and those of Mr. Liv- 
ingston upon the subject, all of which appeared to me 
extremely well written for enforcing the request. I was 
at first told that it would be a difficult thing to furnish 
such a sum at present, but it should be considered. It 
was much wondered that no letters were brought by 
the Washington for M. le Comte de Virgennes, as 
several were come to the Secretary of War, M. de 
Segur, and to the Marquis de Castries, Secretary of 
the Marine ; and the next time I waited on the minister 
I was told that nothing could be done till the dis- 
patches from M. de la Luzerne were received. I 
enquired of Capt. Barney, who told me he believed M. 
de Forest had them, who left him to go for Paris by 
way of Nantes. M. de Forest was a week or ten days 
before he arrived at Paris, and he had not the dis- 
patches. After a fortnight had thus passed, I sent Capt. 
Barney down to search for them in his ship ; he there 
found them, and in about eight days more they arrived 
and were delivered. I have since continually pressed 
for a favorable answer. The Marquis de la Fayette 



328 CORRESPONDENCE OF THE NEW JERSEY [1782. 

has likewise been importunate, but we could only learn 
that there was yet no decision. The negotiations for 
peace were going on, and I ascribed the delay partly to 
the uncertainty of the event, which might make a less 
sum sufficient if it succeeded, or a greater necessary if 
the war was still to be continued. I believe, too, that 
the new loan meditated for this government, but not 
ascertained, might occasion some suspension. But 
whatever are the causes, the fact is, that though I un- 
derstand we are to be aided, I am still ignorant what 
the quantum will be or when it can be obtained. I 
have detained Capt. Barney, hoping that he might 
carry a part of it, but seeing that so very uncertain, the 
commissioners for the treaty here urge me to send him 
away with the prehminary articles, and take some other 
opportunity of sending money when we get it. Per- 
haps we can make use of the AUiance, which is now 
out upon a cruize. 

Of the amount of Mr. Adams' loan in Holland, I 
have no certain account. He thinks it may be between 
15 and 1,700,000 florins. Mr. Grand has obtained a 
part of it to pay the interest of the Dutch loan, which 
is done. But he will acquaint you better the state of 
his funds than I can do. He tells me he will restate 
his accounts as you desire. 

The shipping of the stores from Brest is wholly m 
the hands of Mr. Barclay. He will hkewise take care 
of those which are unloaded out of the three transports 
at Rochefort that were to have gone with convoy in 
May last^ and have ever since been detained there un- 



1782.] EXECUTIVE FROM 1776 TO 1786. 329 

accountably, which I did not know till lately. The 
four Jamaica ships brought in by the Alliance will fur- 
nish him with money for paying charges. 

The accounts of goods bought to replace the Fay- 
ette's cargo having been sent you by several opportuni- 
ties, I hope you have them before this time. 

I am extremely glad to be freed from your money 
accounts, and the payment of bills. And I hope this 
will be the last application I shall be charged with to 
borrow. In a former letter I requested you to be my 
attorney, to receive and remit my salary, which I now 
repeat. The friends of the Due de Lauzun, who is an 
officer in the French army, having occasion to send him 
some money, requested me to furnish bills. To oblige 
them I gave a draft on you for six thousand livres, 
which I request you will honor, and deduct the same 
out of my salary. Methinks Mr. Grand should have 
some general order to defray the contingent expenses of 
your ministers. I am concerned that the resolution of 
appointing some person to settle all our accounts in 
Europe has not yet been carried into execution. They 
certainly cannot so well be settled in America, and I 
shall think it hard after I am out of place to be detained 
here on that account for years like poor unhappy Deane, 
who, by the way, is I think in that respect hardly dealt 
with. Settlement of accounts and payment of just 
balances is due even between enemies. 

I know not where the Virginia stores lie ; I will 
enquire and acquaint Mr. Barclay with your resolution 
concerning them, which I think very prudent. Penet, 



330 CORRESPONDENCE OF THE NEW JERSEY [1783. 

who was employed by that state as an agent to borrow 
money here, is broke and absconded. His creditors are 
all worrying me with their complaints, who have 
nothing to do with his affairs. I have long since men- 
tioned the inconvenience of the attempts of separate 
states to borrow money in Europe. They have hurt 
our credit and produced nothing. We have put faith 
in every adventurer who pretended to have influence 
here, and who when he arrived had none but what 
our appointment gave him. I congratulate on the 
tokens of approaching peace. I wish nothing may 
happen to prevent it. 

With sincere and great esteem I am, sir, your most 
obedient and most humble servant, 

B. FRANKLIN. 
Hon'ble Robt. Morris, Esq. 



From Robert R. Livingston to Governor Livingston, 

Philadelphia, March 18th, 1783. 
Sir, — Congress a few days since directed me to 
transmit to your Excellency a copy of the provisional 
treaty of peace between the United States and Great 
Britain. I should done it at an earlier day without any 
particular direction, had not an order passed in Con- 
gress for furnishing the Delegates of each state with a 
copy, that it might be transmitted through them. Id 
conformity to the second direction, I have the honor to 
enclose a copy, though I have no doubt that I have 
been already anticipated by that forwarded by the del- 



1783.] EXECUTIVE FROM 1776 TO 1786. 331 

egates of your state. Yet, sir, this letter may not be 
entirely useless when it assures you that the conclusion 
of the treaty is very uncertain. My public letters are 
of such a nature as not to free me from apprehensions 
that Britain still seeks rather to divide her enemies 
than to be reconciled to them, though this suspicion 
may not perhaps be well founded, yet such conduct is 
so conformable to the general tenor of British councils, 
to the character of the king and his first minister, that 
it is at least the part of prudence to be upon our guard 
against it. 

But whatever their intentions may be, the peace must 
still depend upon so many contingencies that no prepa- 
pation for another campaign should be omitted on our 
part, none is neglected by our antagonist. They have 
voted one hundred and ten thousand seamen for the 
ensuing year. France continues her preparations, and 
will not close the war till she can obtain honorable 
terms for her alUes. But little progress was made in 
their negotiations when my letters were written. 

Count de Vergennes has thought it prudent to advise 
Congress of this circumstance, that they might be pre- 
pared for every event. I communicate it to your Ex- 
cellency with similar views. I doubt not you will 
avail yourself of this information to urge the state in 
which you preside, to take such measures that they may 
not be found unprovided in case our hopes of peace 
should be frustrated. 

It would give me pleasure to learn the measures that 
have been adopted, in consequence of the requisition 



332 CORRESPONDENCE OF THE NEW JERSEY [1783. 

made in my letters to your Excellency, or your prede- 
cessors in office at different periods, relative to my de- 
partment, and more particularly to receive the accounts 
so frequently called for of the damage done by the 
enemy in your state. I have reason to think had it 
been furnished in time, it might have been of singular 
use to our ministers, and perhaps have tended to obtain 
some relief for the sufferers. It may not yet come too 
late to be useful, let me pray your Excellency to take 
measures for furnishing three authentic copies by the 
earliest opportunity. 

I have the honor to be, with great respect, your Ex- 
cellency's most obed't humble servant, 

ROBT. R. LIVINGSTON. 
His Excellency, Wm. Livingston. 



From Robert Morris to Governor Livingston. 

Office of Finance, June 5th, 1783. 

Sir, — Congress having directed a very considerable 
part of the army to be sent home on furlough, I am 
pressed exceedingly to make a payment of three months' 
wages, and I am very desirous to accomplish it ; but the 
want of money compels me to an anticipation on the 
taxes by making this payment in notes. To render this 
mode tolerably just or useful, the notes must be punc- 
tually discharged when they fall due, and my depend- 
ance must be on the money to be received of the several 
states on the requisitions for the last and present year. 
I hope the urgency of the case will produce the desired 



1783.] EXECUTIVE FROM 1776 TO 1786. 333 

exertions, and finally enable me to preserve the credit 
and honor of the federal government. 

I have the honor to remain your Excellency's most 
obedient and very humble servant, 

ROBT MORRIS. 
His Excellency, the Governor of New Jersey. 



From General Washington to the President of 
Congress. 

, > Head-Quarters, June 7th, 1783. 

y 

Sir, — I have the honor to enclose to your Excel- 
lency the copy of an address to me from the Generals 
and officers commanding regiments and corps, together 
with my answer to them. These enclosures will ex- 
plain the distresses which resulted from the measures 
now carrying into execution., in consequence of the 
resolutions of Congress of the 26th of May ; but the 
sensibility occasioned by a parting scene under such 
peculiar circumstances will not admit of description. 

The two subjects of complaint with the army, ap- 
pear to be the delay of the three months' pay, which 
had been expected, and the want of a settlement of ac- 
counts. I have thought myself authorized to assure 
them Congress had and would attend to their grievan- 
ces, and have made some little variation respecting fur- 
loughs from what was at first proposed. The Secretary 
at War will be able to explain the reason and propriety 
of this alteration. 

While I consider it a tribute of justice on this occa- 



334 CORRESPONDENCE OF THE NEW JERSEY [1783- 

sion to mention the temperate and orderly behavior of 
the whole army, and particularly the accommodating 
spirit of the officers, in arranging themselves to the com- 
mand of the battalions which will be composed of the 
three years men, permit me to recall to mind all the 
former suflferings and merits, and to recommend the 
reasonable requests to the early and favourable notice 
of Congress. 

I have the honor to be, with the highest respect, your 
obed't servant, 

G" WASHINGTON. 
His Excellency, the President of Congress. 



General W. Heath, in behalf of the Generals, 8^., to 
General Washi7igton — enclosed in the foregoing. 

Sir, — It is difficult for me to express the regret we 
feel at being obliged again to solicit your Excellency's 
attention and patronage. Next to the anguish which 
the prospect of our own wretchedness excites in our 
breasts, is the pain which arises from a knowledge of 
your anxiety on account of those men who have been 
the sharers of your fortunes, and have had the honor of 
being your companions through the various vicissitudes 
of the war, Nothing therefore but necessity could in- 
duce us to a representation which we know must give 
you concern. 

Your Excellency has so intimate a knowledge of the 
condition of the army as to render a particular deUnea- 
tion unnecessary. As you have been a witness of our 



1783.] EXECUTIVE FROM 1776 TO 1786. 335 

sufferings during a war uncommon in its nature and 
unparalleled in many circumstances attending it, so jou 
are now, sir, no less a witness of the unequal burthen 
which has fallen upon us from the want of that provis- 
ion to which, from our assiduous and unremitting servi- 
ces, we conceive we are entitled. Having recently 
expressed our sense of what was due to our distress ; 
having repeated, from your Excellency, the confidence 
we had that our accounts would be liquidated, the bal- 
ances ascertained, and adequate funds provided for 
payment previous to our being dispersed or disbanded ; 
having seen with pleasure the approbation which Con- 
gress gave of our reliance, it is with a mixture of as- 
tonishment and chagrin that we view the late resolve 
of Congress, by which the soldiers for the war, and a 
proportionate number of officers are to be furloughed, 
without any one of those important objects being ac- 
complished :— and to complete the scene of woe, are to 
be compelled to leave the army without the means of 
defraying the debts we have necessarily incurred in the 
course of service, or even of gratifying those menials in 
the pittance which is their due, much less to carry with 
us that support and comfort to our families of which 
from our long military services they have been deprived. 
No less exposed then to the insults of the meanest 
followers of the army, than to the arrests of the sheriff, 
deprived of the ability to assist our famiUe^ and with- 
out an evidence that anything is due to us, for our 
services, and consequently without the least prospect of 
obtaining credit for even a temporary subsistence until 



^v 



336 CORRESPONDENCE OF THE NEW JERSEY [1783. 

we can get into business. To what quarter can we 
look I We take the hberty to say, sir, only to your 
Excellency ; and from the sincerity of our hearts, we 
do it no less from a persuasion of the efficiency of your 
farther efforts in our favor, than from the kind assu- 
rance you have been pleased to give us of your sup- 
port. 

To your Excellency, then, we make our appeal, and 
in the most solemn manner, from that abhorrence of 
oppression and injustice which first unsheathed our 
swords ; from the remembrance of the common dangers 
through which we have passed, and from the recollec- 
lection of those astonishing events which have been 
effected by our united efforts; permit us to solicit your 
further aid, and to entreat that the order of the 2d 
instant, founded on the act of Congress of the 26th of 
May last, may be suspended or varied in its operations, 
so far as that no officer or soldier be obliged to receive 
a furlough, until that honorable body can be apprized of 
the wretched situation into which the army must be 
plunged by a conformity to it ; — that your Excellency 
will endeavor to prevail on Congress — nay that on the 
principles of common justice you will insist, that neither 
officer nor soldier be compelled to leave the field until a 
liquidation of accounts can be effected, till the balances 
are ascertained, certificates for the sums due given, — in- 
cluding the commutation of half pay to the officers, and 
the gratuity of eighty dollars to the soldiers, and till a 
supply of money can be furnished sufficient to carry us 
from the field of glory with honor to ourselves, and 



/ 



1783.] EXECUTIVE FROM 1776 TO 1786. 337 

credit to our country. We still wish to believe that 
that country to which we have been so long devoted, 
will never look with indifference on the distresses of 
those of her sons who have so essentially contributed 
to the estabUshmeut of freedom, the security of pro- 
perty, and the rearing of an empire. 

In the name and behalf of the generals and officers 
commanding regiments and corps in the cantonment of 
Hudson River, 

I have the honor to be your Excellency's most obe- 
dient and humble servant, 

W. HEATH, Major General. 

His Excellency, Gen. Washington. 



From General Washingto?i to General Heath, en- 
closed in the foregoing Letter to the President of 
Congress. 

Head-Quarters, June 6th, 1782. 
Sir, — Before I make a reply to the subject of the 
address of the generals and officers commanding the 
regiments and corps of the army presented by yourself 
yesterday, I entreat that those gentlemen will accept 
my warmest acknowledgements for the confidence they 
have been pleased to repose in me. They may rest 
assured it shall never be abused, and I beg they will be 
persuaded that as no man can possibly be better ac- 
quainted than I am with the past merits and services of 
the army, so no one can possibly be more strongly im- 
pressed with their present inehgible situation, feel a 

22 



338 CORRESPONDENCE OF THE NEW JERSEY [1783- 

keener sensibility at their distresses, or more ardently 
desire to alleviate or remove them. But it would be 
unnecessary perhaps to enter into a detail of w^hat I 
have done, and w^hat I am still attempting to do in order 
to assist in the accompHshment of this interesting pur- 
pose. Let it be sufficient to observe, I do not yet 
despair of success, for I am perfectly convinced the 
states cannot, without involving themselves in national 
bankruptcy and ruin, refuse to comply with the requisi- 
sitions of Congress, who, it must be acknowledged, have 
done everything in their power to obtain ample and 
Hcompleat justice for the army, and whose great object in 
the present measure undoubtedly was by a reduction 
of expenses, to enable the financier to make three 
months' payment to the army, which, on all hands, has 
been agreed to be absolutely and indispensably neces- 
sary. To explain this matter I beg leave to insert an 
extract of a letter from the Superintendent of Finance, 
dated the 29th ultimo. 

" It is now above a month since the committee con- 
ferred with me on that subject, and I then told them no 
payment could be made to the army, but by means of 
a paper anticipation, and unless our expenditures were 
immediately and considerable reduced, even that could 
not be done. Our expenditures have nevertheless been 
continued, and our revenues lessen, the states grow- 
ing daily more and more remiss in their collections ; the 
consequence is, that I cannot make payment in the 
manner first intended, the notes issued for this purpose 
would have been payable at two, four, and six months 



1783.] EXECUTIVE FROM 1776 TO 1786. 339 

from the dates, but at present they will be at six months, 
and even that w^ill soon become impracticable, unless 
our expenses are immediately curtailed. I shall cause 
such notes to be issued for three months' pay to the 
army, and I must entreat, sir, that every influence be 
used with the states to absorb them, together with my 
other engagements, by taxation." 

Three days ago a messenger was despatched to me 
to urge the necessity of forwarding these notes with 
the greatest possible expedition. Under this state of 
circumstances I need scarcely add, the expenses of 
every day feeding the army will increase very consid- 
rably the inability of the public to discharge the debts 
already incurred, at least for a considerable time to 
come. 

Although the officers of the army very well know my 
official situation ; that I am only a servant of the pub- 
lic, and that it is not for me to dispense with orders 
which it is my duty to carry into execution ; yet as 
furloughs in all services are considered as a matter of 
indulgence and not of compulsion; as Congress, I am 
persuaded, entertain the best disposition toward the 
army, and as I apprehend in a very short time the two 
principal articles of complaint will be removed, — until 
the further pleasure of Congress can be known I shall 
not hesitate to comply with the wishes of the army, — 
under these reservations only, that officers sufficient to 
conduct the men who choose to receive furloughs will 
attend them either on furlough or by detachment. The 
propriety and necessity of this measure must be obvious 



340 CORRESPONDENCE OF THE NEW JERSEY [1783. 

to all ; it need not therefore be enforced. And with 
regard to the non-commissioned officers and privates, 
such as from a peculiarity of circumstances wish not to 
receive furloughs at this time, will give in their names 
by 12 o'clock to-morrow to the commanding officers of 
their regiment, that, on a report to the adjutant-general, 
an equal number of men engaged for three years may 
be furloughed, which will make the saving of expenses 
exactly the same to the public. 

I cannot but hope the notes will soon arrive ; and 
that the settlement of accounts may be compleated by 
the assistance of the paymasters in a very few days. 
In the meantime I shall have the honor of laying the 
sentiments of the generals and officers commanding 
regiments and corps before Congress. They are ex- 
pressed in such a decent, candid and affecting manner, 
that I am certain every mark of attention will be paid 
to them. 

I have the honor to be your obed't serv't, 

GO WASHINGTON. 
Major-General Heath. 



From Robert Morj-is to Governor Livingston. 

Office of Finance, July 11th, 1783. 

Sir, — I do myself the honor to inclose to your Ex- 
cellency a state of the pubhc accounts, balanced on the 
last day of June, 1783. A view of these accounts will 
render it unnecessary to make many observations. 

On the states I am to rely for payment of the antici- 



1783.] EXECUTIVE FROM 1776 TO 1786. 341 

pations, amounting, as you will see, to more than a 
million. And you will observe that this great anticipa- 
tion has been made for that service which all affect to 
have so much at heart — a payment to the American 
army. If they had received no pay daring the year 
1783, I might have perhaps have been spared the neces- 
sity of this application, because it is probable that the 
taxes, even as they are now collected, might have ab- 
sorbed such anticipations as I should then have been 
obhged to make. 

Much pains have been taken to inculcate tlie idea 
that we have funds in Europe; those funds which we 
had there are exhausted, and the general apprehension 
that no proper funds here will be provided has cut off 
all hopes from that quarter. 

The question has frequently and industriously been 
asked, what becomes of the monies which are paid in 
taxes ? I have furnished the means of judging as to 
those which reach the public treasury, to every man 
employed in the administration of government in the 
several states, for my acounts have been regularly 
transmitted. And I would not have mentioned the 
insinuation had it not been for the purpose of observing 
that it is incumbent on all those who are desirous of 
forwarding a collection of taxes, to show a fair appro- 
priation, and not suffer groundless clamors to disturb the 
public mind. It has been said that there is no neces- 
sity of urging the collection of taxes now, because the 
notes given to the army are not payable in less than six 
months. This again, is an assertion, whose mischiev- 



342 CORRESPONDENCE OF THE NEW JERSEY [1783. 

ous operation is levelled at the very vitals of our credit. 
One month of that time is already expired with res- 
pect to all those notes which have been already issued. 
They are not the only notes in circulation. Notes are 
not the only modes of anticipation, which have been 
adopted ; and it is a serious fact that unless more rig- 
orous measures take place, the credit of all notes, and 
of everything else, must be destroyed. But this is not 
all. Supposing, a moment, that the notes given to our 
army were the only object whose credit was to be at- 
tended to. Can any reasonable man imagine that they 
could be of any use if the payment were to depend on 
taxes which are not to be collected until the notes were 
due 1 I have not been wanting on my part in pointing 
out from time to time the mischiefs which must ensue 
from neglect. The applications have met with inat- 
tention which personally I have disregarded, but which 
I could not but feel from the consequences involved in 
it. Again, in compliance with the duty I owe to the 
United States, I call for that aid to which they are 
entitled to. And on this occasion I take leave to ob- 
serve that the moment is very fast approaching which 
is to determine whether America is entitled to the 
appellation of Just, or whether those who have con- 
stantly aspersed her character are to be beUeved. 

With perfect respect I have the honor to be, sir^ 
your Excellency's most obedient and humble servant, 

ROBT MORRIS. 
His Excellency, the Governor of New Jersey. 



1783.] EXECUTIVE FROM 1776 TO 1786. 343 

From Robert Morris to Governor Livingston. 

Office of Finance, July 28th, 1783. 

Sir, — Having already transmitted the public accounts 
from the commencement of my administration to the 
first day of this month, I shall not trouble yonr Excel- 
lency with a repetition of them. But I must pray your 
indulgence v^^hile I make a few observations. Perhaps 
this letter may contain too much of egotism, but your 
candor will excuse me when the motive is known. If 
I have rendered any services to the United States they 
have been derived from the generous confidence of my 
countrymen. This confidence must not be abused, and 
if it be lost my utility is at an end. 

The accounts will shew to any informed and reflect- 
ing mind that the public monies were economically 
applied, and if farther proof were necessary I could 
appeal to the honorable delegates in Congress, who 
have every opportunity of investigation. I might also 
appeal to the clamors against me for opposing claims I 
could not properly comply with. Long have I been 
the object of enmities derived from that origin. I have 
therefore the right to consider such clamors and such 
enmities as the confession and the evidence of my care 
and attention. 

But, sir, from the same accounts, it will appear that 
on the thirtieth day of June last, my payments had 
exceeded the amount of my receipts by more than a 
milUon of dollars. How indeed could it be otherwise, 
when all the taxes brought into the treasury since 1781 



344 CORRESPONDENCE OF THE NEW JERSEY [1783. 

did not amount to seven hundred and fifty thousand 
dollars. I have been propelled to this heavy anticipa- 
tion by an earnest desire to relieve our army by the 
General's w^arm representations on the subject, and, 
above all, by the directions of Congress and their assu- 
rances of support. The enclosed letter to them will 
shew my desire to reduce our expences. But while I 
urge the reduction of expence, it is equally my duty to 
urge an increase of revenue. If I have been a faithful 
steward of what was entrusted to me, if more became 
necessary than I ever received, and if urged by that 
necessity 1 have anticipated the receipts, surely I am in 
the strictest hue of propriety when I loudly call for 
relief. Every one must know that the paper I have 
circulated will lose its value unless punctually redeemed. 
The several receivers are indeed instructed to exchange 
it. But what can that instruction avail if specie be 
not placed in their hands for the purpose ? and how 
can that be effected but by a vigorous collection of 
taxes ? 

I know that my soHcitude on this subject will be 
charged to improper motives, when I urge a reduction 
of expenses, it will be said that I wish to impair the 
strength and lessen the respectability of our country. 
Far other wishes swell my bosom, but I have been 
driven into a conviction that the necessity of strength 
and the advantages of reputation are not yet sufficiently 
felt and understood by all the members of our federal 
union. 

My present call for taxes has also been anticipated 



1783.] EXECUTIVE FROM 1776 TO 1786. 345 

by a slanderous report that I have speculated on this 
very paper which I urge the redemption of. Most 
solemnly I declare that I have been never concerned, 
directly or indirectly, in any such speculation. If there 
be a man in the world who knows any instance to dis- 
prove what I say, let him step forth with the accusation. 
No, sir, the object is in no wise a personal one to me, I 
only advocate the interest and reputation of America. 
If, with a view to injure me, the attempt is made to 
violate my engagements, the malice will be defeated ; 
but at the same time let it be remembered that the 
country which will not support faithful servants can 
never be faithfully served. Guilt and desperation will 
ever pant for scenes of tumult and disorder, office will 
ever excite envy, and malevolence dehght in slandering 
tales. Is it then to be wondered at that my foes are 
numerous ? Believe me, sir, if their attempts had only 
effected me and mine they should have been received 
in the same silence which has buried many other 
wrongs. But on the present occasion it becomes my 
duty to dehneate their baneful influence. 

Pains are taken to cover with infamy all those who 
discount the public paper. The natural effect of this 
measure is to prevent those men from meddling with it 
who, from a regard to their own reputations, would do 
the business on moderate terms. Hence it follows that 
the holders cannot obtain so much for their paper as they 
otherwise might. Hence again an additional clamor, 
and of course an additional loss to the possessors. On 
the basis of the depreciation is founded an argument to 



346 CORRESPONDENCE OF THE NEW JERSEY [1783. 

prevent the redemption. By these means the pubHc 
credit is totally ruined, and the government becomes 
chargeable with flagrant injustice. No future anticipa- 
tions can be made to supply the most urgent w^ants, and 
in the whole proceeding those are made the victims who 
confided in the faith of government. 

The attempt therefore, by this slander, to injure me is 
an injury to those who have received my paper, and in 
every instance where they have joined in propagating 
the report they have joined their enemies to plunder 
themselves. Let me no longer intrude on your Excel- 
lency's patience than to declare my conviction that the 
states might easily fulfil far more extensive engagements 
than those which I have made on their account. Not- 
withstanding every insinuation, I will continue my 
efforts for the purpose, and, though base minds should 
reiterate their charges, I will persist in my duty and 
defy their malice. 

With perfect respect, I have the honor to be, sir, your 
Excellency's most obedient and humble servant, 

ROBT. MORRIS. 
His Excellency, the Governor of New Jersey. 



From Elias Boudinot to the Chairman of Joint Meeting. 

Princeton, October 29th, 1783. 

Sir, — My time in the chair of Congress having just 

expired, aud the seventh year of my expulsion from my 

house and estate completed (the greater part of which 

has been devoted to the public service) whereby my 



1783.] EXECUTIVE FROM 1776 TO 1786. 347 

private affairs are become totally deranged, shall I 
beg the favour of you, sir, to make known my request in 
the most respectful manner, to the honorable the Legis- 
lature of this state, in their joint meeting, for their per- 
mission to retire to private life ; and at the same time to 
assure them of the deep sense I retain of the honors I 
have received from them by the repeated trusts reposed 
in me. My highest ambition has been to serve my 
country in her distress. This I have endeavoured to do 
to the utmost of my power, and if at any time I have 
failed in so important a duty for want of abilities, it has 
been made up by the most unfeigned integrity. If 
those services have been acceptable to my country, I 
shall receive a most ample reward. 

Suffer me in the most respectful manner to congrat- 
ulate you, sir, and the legislature, on the accomplishment 
of the honorable and glorious peace with which my 
administration has been honored. I mean not by this 
request to embarass public measures, but as peace is at 
least so firmly established, and the serving our country 
the highest honor to which any citizen can now aspire, 
there can be no doubt of a choice of candidates to fill 
so distinguished an office. 

May the best of heaven's blessings descend on the 
legislature, and may all their councils be directed to ac- 
complish the true interests of this happy republic ; and 
be assured that in whatever situation divine Providence 
may think proper to place me, I shall never cease to 
pray for their prosperity. 

I have the honor to be, with great respect and 



348 CORRESPONDENCE OF THE NEW JERSEY [1783. 

esteem, your most obedient and very humble ser- 
vant, 

ELIAS BOUDINOT. 
Hon'ble Chairman of the Joint Meeting ot" the Legis 
lature. 



William Livingston to the Legislature. 

Trenton, November 8th, 1783. 
Gentlemen, — I am very sensibly affected with the 
honor conferred on me by the representatives of the 
good people of New Jersey, in appointing me to so 
eminent and important an office as that of Governor of 
this state. The favorable opinion which they are 
pleased to entertain of my abilities, and the great con- 
fidence they repose in my integrity by such appoint- 
ment, deserves my warmest acknowledgments. How 
much soever they may happen to find themselves mis- 
taken in the first, I assure them that I am determined to 
merit the latter ; and I hope by the more diligent appli- 
cation and greater industry in promoting the common 
weal, in some measure to atone for the defect of brighter 
talents and more extensive knowledge. 

WILL. LIVINGSTON. 
Hon'ble Legislature of New Jersey. 



1783.] EXECUTIVE FROM 1776 TO 1786, 349 

From the President of Congress to Governor 
Livingston. 

Annapolis, December 23d, 1783. 

Sir, — I am directed by Congress to inform your Ex- 
cellency " that the safety, honor and good faith of the 
" United States require the immediate attendance of 
" your delegates in Congress. That there have not 
" been during the sitting of Congress at this place 
" more than seven states represented, viz. Massachu- 
" sets, Rhode Island, Pennsylvania, Delaware, Mary- 
" land, Virginia and North Carolina, and most of these 
" by two delegates only, and that the ratification of the 
" definitive treaty and several other matters of great 
*' national concern are now pending before Congress 
'■ which require the utmost dispatch, and to which 
" the assent of at least nine states is necessary." 

I have the honor to be, with the highest respect, your 
Excellency's ob't and h'ble serv't, 

THOMAS MIFFLIN. 
His Excellency, the Governor of New Jersey. 



From the President of Congress to Governor 
Livingston. 

Annapolis, December 24th, 1783. 
Sir, — I had the honor to write to your Excellency 
on the 23d November informing you that that the defi- 
nitive treaty had arrived, and that the last article of it 



350 CORRESPONDENCE OF THE NEW JERSEY [1783. 

declares that it should be ratified and exchanged within 
six months from the signature. 

Yesterday I again wrote to your Excellency by order 
of Congress informing you that only seven states were 
represented in Congress, viz. Massachusetts, Rhode 
Island, Pennsylvania, Delaware, Maryland, Virginia 
and North Carolina, and that the ratification of the 
definitive treaty and several other matters of the great- 
est consequence were delayed by a want of a represen- 
tation of nine states. My letter of yesterday was 
forwarded by the post, but as Congress are strongly im- 
pressed with an apprehension that the time mentioned 
in the definitive treaty will elapse before a representa- 
tion of nine states can be obtained, and as such a repre- 
sentation cannot take place unless New Jersey and 
Connecticut send on their delegates, they have in- 
structed me to write to you by express, and to urge in 
the strongest terms the importance of an immediate 
representation in Congress from the state of New 
Jersey. 

Let me, therefore, earnestly entreat your Excellency 
to use your influence on this important point, that the 
consequences to be expected from the want of an im- 
mediate representation of nine states may not be 
imputable to your state, which on every former occa- 
sion has exerted herself with so much honor and repu- 
tation. 

New Hampshire has but one member attending, and 
there is no probability of a representation of that state 
in less than six weeks. 



1784.] EXECUTIVE FROM 1776 TO 1786. 351 

New York has no delegates in Congress nor can it 
be represented in many weeks. 

South CaroHna has one member attending, one of 
the delegates from that state is in ill-health at Philadel- 
phia, his attendance is uncertain. 

By letters from Georgia, we find there is no proba- 
bihty of a representation from thence this winter. 
From this view of our situation your Excellency will 
observe that the ratification of the definitive Treaty in 
proper time depends upon the immediate exertions of 
New Jersey and Connecticut. 

I should be glad to know from your Excellency by 
the return of this express at what time we may expect 
a representation from your state. 

I have the honor to be, w ith the highest respect and 
esteem, your Excellency's ob't and h'ble servant, 

THOMAS MIFFLIN. 

His Excellency, Governor Livingston. 

N. B. — Near 4 months have elapsed since the defini- 
tive treaty was signed, and the ratifications are to be 
exchanged in Paris within six months. 



From Governor Livingston to the Legislature. 

Trenton, Oct. 24, 1784. 

Gentlemen, — My appointment by so respectable a 
body as the representatives of this state, to the import- 
ant office of the Chief Magistrate in it, deserves my 
warmest gratitude, especially as the repetition of it, 
after the experience of some years is the strongest proof 



352 CORRESPONDENCE OF THE NEW JERSEY [1785. 

of the favorable opinion which the good people of New 
Jersey must have been pleased to entertain of my fidel- 
ity in the administration of the government, and I can 
assure them that it is rather the honour derived from 
the incontestible testimony of their favorable sentiments 
concerning me, and the pleasure I take in serving the 
public, than from any pecuniary motives, that I accept 
of the appointment. Upon this, I wish them to be 
persuaded, that with respect to integrity and diligence 
(however they may happen to be disappointed as to my 
talents or abilities,) they will not be deceived in their 
expectations. 

WILL. LIVINGSTON. 
Hon'ble the Legislative Council and Gen'l Assembly of 
the State of New Jersey in Joint Meeting. 



From the Secretary of Congress to the Governor. 

Office of the Secretary of Congress, ) 
August 24th, 1785. \ 

giR^ — I beg leave to remind your Excellency that all 

the calls which Congress have heretofore made on the 

states for money or supplies have been on this express 

condition, that the sums or supplies assessed should not 

be considered as the proportion of any state, but that 

being paid or furnished, they should be placed to their 

respective credits, bearing an interest of six per cent. 

per annum, until the quotas should be finally ascertained 

and adjusted by the Congress of the United States, 

agreeably to the eighth of the articles of the confede- 



1785.] EXECUTIVE FROM 1776 TO 1786. 353 

ration. And if then it should appear that any state 
had assessed more than its just quota, it should continue 
to receive interest on the surplus, and if less, it should 
be charged interest on the deficiency until by a future 
tax, such deficiency shall be justly adjusted. 

From the progress that is made in settling the ac- 
counts between the United States and individual states 
and private creditors within the same, and the measures 
taken to hasten and faciUtate the progress of such 
settlement, there is reason to hope, that this great work 
will soon be completed. And as almost every state 
seems to think its advances have exceeded its just pro- 
portion, it is therefore become necessary and essential 
to the harmony of the Union that Congress should be 
furnished with the means of settling the proportion to 
be borne by each state, as well as of the general ex- 
penses of the war, and the requisitions made since the 
conclusion thereof, as the sums which may from time to 
time be requisite for the common defence and general 
welfare. To this end I beg leave to call your attention 
to sundry acts of Congress on this subject, which you 
will find enclosed, viz : One passed the 20th of Febru- 
ary, 1782, which is founded on this consideration, that 
the states having been variously affected by the war, 
the rule of confederation strictly adhered to might not 
produce that equal justice which is desirable in this 
important object. One of the 17th February, 1783, 
which calls for a return of the quantity of land in each 
state, granted to or surveyed for any person, the number 
of buildings thereon, distinguishing dwelling houses 
23 



354 CORRESPONDENCE OF THE NEW JERSEY [1785. 

from other buildings, and the number of inhabitants, 
distinguishing white from black : and one of the 18th 
April, 1783, recommending an alteration of the eighth 
of the articles of Confederation and perpetual union, 
and the adoption of a new rule of ascertaining the 
quotas of the states. This is comprehended in the act, 
and is a part of the plan at that time recommended to 
the states for restoring and supporting pubHc credit ; 
for obtaining permanent and adequate funds to dis- 
charge the interest and principal of the debt contracted 
and for providing for the future exigencies of the Union. 
The necessity of a rule to apportion the common ex- 
pense, and the difficulties, delays and expense in the 
way of obtaining that pointed out by the Confederation, 
induced Congress to recommend that change ; and the 
rather as the number of inhabitants, at least of the 
white inhabitants, is required for other purposes of the 
confederation. Besides, it was conceived that this rule 
would do more justice and produce less discontents 
among the states, and although not altogether free 
from objections, that it was hable to fewer than any 
other that could be devised, and therefore that the 
application of it to ascertain the quotas of the state, 
would supercede the necessity and save the expense and 
trouble of making a valuation of the lands with the 
buildings and improvements thereon. 

The favorable reception this recommendation has 
met with induces a belief that this alteration will be 
finally adopted. By examining the files in this office I 
find that eight states have agreed to it, namely, Massa- 



1785.] EXECUTIVE FROM 1776 TO 1786. 355 

chusetts, Connecticut, New York, New Jersey, Penn- 
sylvania, Maryland, Virginia, and North Carolina ; and 
it is suggested that other states have adopted it, although 
the returns are not lodged in this office. But if all the 
states had agreed to adopt it, still it would be necessary 
for them to proceed a step further, and to make returns 
of their respective numbers before Congress can apply 
the rule. I must therefore request that your Excellency 
would be pleased to bring this subject again under the 
view of the Legislature of your state, and earnestly 
recommend to them, as they have authorized their del- 
egates to subscribe and ratify the alteration recom- 
mended, to take speedy and effectual measures for 
numbering the inhabitants and make a return thereof 
to Congress. With respect to the other part of the 
plan contained in the act of the 18th of April, as it is 
not the immediate object of this letter, I shall only refer 
to the address which accompanied it, and which you 
will find enclosed, and beg leave to add this single ob- 
servation, that every day's delay increases the embar- 
rassments of the Union ; and experience evinces how 
well Congress were founded in the opinion they gave 
on the 12th of February, 1783: "That the establish- 
ment of permanent and adequate funds in taxes or 
duties which shall operate generally and on the whole 
in just proportion throughout the United States, are 
indispensably necessary towards doing complete justice 
to the public creditors, and for restoring public credit. 

I will not at present detain you farther than to re- 
quest that your Excellency will be pleased to favour 



356 CORRESPONDENCE OF THE NEW JERSEY [1785. 

me with an answer that I may be enabled to make 
report and discharge the duty required by the enclosed 
ordinance for regulating the office of Secretary of 
Congress. 

With the greatest respect I have the honor to be 
your Excellency's most obedient and humble servant, 

CHAs THOMSON. 
His Excellency, the Governor of the State of New 
Jersey. 



From Benjamin Thoinpson to Governor Livingston. 

Commissioner's Office, Newark, October 22d, 1785. 

Sir, — Congress, since the appointment of commis- 
sioners to the several states for the purpose of bringing 
the public accounts to a final settlement, have in the 
most pressing terms repeatedly enjoined it on the com- 
missioners to proceed in the various duties assigned 
them with the utmost expedition possible. Anxious to 
fulfill their intentions by a faithful discharge of the 
trust committed to my care, and impressed with the im- 
portance of the business as well to the general interests 
of the union, as to the particular interests of this state, 
I have not, I flatter myself, been deficient in diligence 
or attention towards the accomplishment of this much 
wished for object. 

The extensive claims of the individuals of this state, 
and the impatience of the claimants to obtain final set- 
tlements, have hitherto engrossed my whole time and 
apphcation, and rendered me incapable of any cogni- 



1785.] EXECUTIVE FROM 1776 TO 1786. 357 

zance of the general charges of the state. This 
business, however, from the considerable progress 
already made, I have good reason to expect will nearly 
close with the present year. It therefore now becomes 
my duty to address your Excellency, as the supreme 
executive authority of the state, on the important sub- 
ject of the state charges against the union, whereon I 
must earnestly soUcit, that your Excellency will repre- 
sent to the Legislature at their ensuing meeting the 
necessity of speedily adopting some mode of collecting 
and bringing forward all such accounts of expenditures 
supphes and services made and rendered on the part of 
this state for account of the United States, as consist- 
ently with the acts and resolutions of Congress may be 
deemed proper charges ; stated under their several 
heads and accompanied with the necessary vouchers to 
their support, conformably to the rules and directions 
prescribed by Congress for the settlement of the pubhc 
accounts. Whatever method, sir, the legislature may 
find expedient to collect and bring forward the state 
accounts for liquidation and settlement, some time I 
presume must unavoidably elapse before any progress 
can be made by the person or persons charged with the 
business during that period. I hope to compleat my 
circuit through the several counties of the state and 
close the settlement of individual claims. 

In full confidence, sir, that the legislature will on 
their meeting, as soon as may be, take the subject 
of this address under consideration, and order the 
things necessary to be done thereon, I shall hold myself 



358 CORRESPONDENCE OF THE NEW JERSEY [1785, 

prepared to meet their appointment and proceed on the 
business that may be laid before me. 

I have the honor to be, most respectfully, sir, your 
most obedient and most humble servant, 

BENJN THOMPSON, 
Commiss'r for Acct's of New Jersey, 
His Excellency, Governor Livingston. 



From Baron Steuben to Governor Livingston. 

New York, November 13th, 1785. 

Sir, — Having become the purchaser of that part of 
the estate of John Zabriskie, lying at the New-bridge, 
near Hackensack, and the term of payment being 
arrived, an order from the commissioners of the conti- 
nental treasury on the treasury of New Jersey lies 
ready for the agent whenever he shall please to call 
for it. 

Before I take the deeds for this place, I have to request 
the favor of your Excellency to represent to the legis- 
lature, that the only lot of wood belonging to the place 
was withheld by the agent at the sale on a doubt of its 
being included in the law because it is at the distance 
of three quarters of a mile from the house, and there- 
fore could not, he supposed, be considered as " lying at 
the New-bridge," though on enquiry I find it was an 
appendage to the estate, and indeed is the only part of 
it on which there is a stick of wood ; and it was be- 
queathed to J. Zabriskie by his father along with the 
house and mill : the lot consists of about 13 acres, it 



1785.] EXECUTIVE FROM 1776 TO 1786. 359 

was left unsold with the house and mill, though every 
other part of J. Zabriskie's estate was sold some years 
since, and being now unpossessed, great part of the 
wood is cut off, and the destruction daily increases. If 
the legislature meant to include it in the law, I must 
request that directions may be given to the agent to 
include it in the deed. If otherwise, as it is essential 
to the other part of the estate, I have to request that I 
may be permitted to purchase it at such valuation as 
may be thought just. 

Your Excellency will, I flatter myself, excuse the 
hberty I take in requesting you to represent this matter 
to the legislature, and to obtain their decision on it so 
soon as the business before them will permit. 

I have the honor to be, with great respect, sir, your 
Excellency's most obed't humble servant, 

STEUBEN. 
His Excellency, Governor Livingston. 



From the Secretary of Congress to Governor 
Livingston. 

Office of Secretary of Congress, ) 
November 18th, 1785. \ . 

Sir, — I am sorry to inform your Excellency that not- 
withstanding it seems to be the intention of the con- 
federation that all the states should punctually assemble 
in Congress on the first Monday in November, there 
are yet but five states represented, namely, Massachu- 



360 CORRESPONDENCE OF THE NEW JERSEY [1786. 

setts, New York, New Jersey, Maryland aad South 
Carolina, and one member attending from Georgia. 

The late packets from Europe have, I understood, 
brought dispatches which demand the immediate and 
attentive consideration of Congress. I beg leave to 
transmit to your Excellency herewith enclosed a copy 
of a letter which I have received from the Secretary of 
foreign affairs, and hope you will be pleased to urge the 
delegates from your state to come forward as speedily as 
possible. 

With the greatest respect, I have the honor to be 
your Excellency's most obed't and most humble servant, 

CHAs THOMSON, 
His Excellency, the Governor of New Jersey. 



From Patrick Henry to the Governor of New Jersey. 

Richmond, February 23d, 1786. 

Sir, — The General Assembly have appointed Ed- 
mund Randolph, James Madison, Jun., Walter Jones, 
St. George Tucker, Meriwether Smith, David Ross, 
WilUam Ronald and George Mason, Esquires, Com- 
missioners to meet others from the different states in the 
Union, at a time and place to be agreed on, for the pur- 
pose of framing such regulations of trade as may be 
judged necessary to promote the general interest. 

I have to request your Excellency's attention to this 
subject, and that you will be pleased to make such com- 
munications of it as may be necessary to forward the 
views of this legislature. 



1786.] EXECUTIVE FROM 1776 TO 1786. 361 

I am, with great regard, your Excellency's obedient 
servant, 

P. HENRY. 

His Excellency, the Governor of Nev/ Jersey. 



From the Secretary of Congress to Governor Liv- 
ingston. 

Office of Secretary of Congress, \ 
March 1st, 1786. \ 

Sir, — As many states in the Union continued to be 
unrepresented in Congress, or to be represented by only 
two members, notwithstanding the many recommenda- 
tions of Congress for remedying these defects, particu- 
larly those of 1st of November, 1783, and the 19th of 
April, 1784; and as from the want of a complete 
representation, the great interests of the Union had 
frequently been, and continued to be, neglected or de- 
layed, and the confederation itself or the administration 
thereof might be considered as the cause of evils which 
solely resulted from an incomplete representation. Con- 
gress judging it incumbent upon them to prevent opin- 
ions so derogatory to their honor, and so dangerous to 
the public welfare, did on the 17th of August last, pass 
a resolve whereby it became the duty of the Secretary 
of Congress once in every month to transmit to the 
Legislatures of the respective states a list of the states 
represented, and of those unrepresented in Congress, 
and of the members from each state. The object of 
this resolution was, that effectual measures might from 



362 CORRESPONDENCE OF THE NEW JERSEY [1786. 

time to time be taken by such states as were unrepre- 
sented or represented only by two members, to remedy 
these defects. 

In the execution of this duty I have had the honor 
every month since of transmitting to your Excellency 
a monthly statement of the representation of the states 
in Congress to be laid before your Legislature. The 
statement which accompanies this, and which I have 
to request the favor of your Excellency to communi- 
cate to the Legislature, is for the month of February 
last. By this and the three other statements transmitted 
since the meeting of Congress on the first Monday in 
November last, your Excellency and the Legislature will 
see that there has not been for a single day, a number 
of states assembled sufticient to proceed on the great 
business of the Union ; indeed, for half the time, not a 
number sufficient to do more than to adjourn from day 
to day. 

With the greatest respect, I have the honor to be 
your Excellency's most obedient and most humble 
servant, 

CHA« THOMSON. 
His Excellency, the Governor of New Jersey, 



From the Secretary of Congress to the Governor. 

Office of Secretary of Congress, 
April 22d, 1786. 

Sir, — In obedience to the order of Congress I have 

the honor to transmit to your Excellency herewith 



1786.] EXECUTIVE FROM 1776 TO 1786. 363 

enclosed copies of the Treaties which the United 
States in Congress assembled have, by their commis- 
sioners, entered into with the Shawanese, Cherokee, 
Choctaw, and Chickasaw Indian nations. 

Considering how much the security, comfort, and 
happiness of the frontier settlements depend on being 
at peace with the neighboring Indians, and how im- 
portant it is to the whole confederacy, that the savages 
on our borders be impressed with a sacred regard for 
treaties, and with a firm, unshaken confidence in our 
justice, honor, and national faith, solemnly pledged, I 
have no doubt but your Excellency will exert the 
means in your power to enforce a due observance of 
the several articles of these treaties, so far as they con- 
cern your state or relate to the conduct of its citizens. 

I have the honor to be, with great respect, your Ex- 
cellency's most obedient and most humble servant, 

CHA^ THOMSON. 
His Excellency, the Governor of New Jersey. 



INDEX. 



Andover Furnace. Applications for ils use 
by the United States, 113, 114. 

Bams. Capt. Andrew, 263. 

Barton. Lieutenant Wm., 61. 

Beavers. Col. Joseph, 46. 

Biddle. Clement, Dep. Qr. Mr. Genl., 11, 
126, 139. 

Bishop. David, recommended for Major, 
24. 

Board of War. Despatch from, respecting 
Andover Furnace, 113. — Respecting 
clothing, 134. — Transmitting reliu-ns of 
troops, 168. — Giving information of two 
cannon at Carlisle, 243. 

Boudinot. Elisha, letter from, recommend- 
ing officers for Newark Mditia, 58. — 
Recommended for office of Deputy Sur- 
rogate of Essex, 72. — Accepts tempora- 
rily the Secretaryship of Committee of 
Safety, 105. 

Boudinot. Ellas, Letter resigning his seat 
in Congress, 346. 

Brearley. Col. David, Letter from, with 
prisoner, 60. 

Bnien. Caleb, 72. 

Bull. Col. John, Letter from, relating to 
pay of soldiers, 34. 

Burlington County. Militia of, 70, 91. — 
Troop of horse in, recommended to be 
raised, 74, 85. 

Chambers. Col. David. 24. 
-<;handler. Mrs. of Elizabethtown, 154. 

Charleston. News of surrender of, 221, 
227. 

Chew. Chief Justice of Pennsylvania, 
confined in Hunterdon coimty. 

Chew. Lieut. Aaron, 263. 

Clark. Abraham, Letters from, on public 
affairs, 25, 212, 267, 324.— Desiring to 
resign, 279. — On the Islands, &c., iii the 
Delaware, 289, 300, 322. 

Clark. Elijah, and John Cox, Letter from, 
relating to a suspicious vessel, 61. 

Clinton. Gov'r, of New York, Letter from, 
respecting outrages on Long Island, 185. 

Condict. Silas, Letter from, accepting ap- 
pointment as one of the Councfl of 
Saiety, 49. 



Confederation. Dr. Scudder, one of the 
Delegates in Congress, asks for authority 
to sign for New Jersey, &c., 119. 

Continental Congress. Despatch from, re- 
lating to defence of New York, 6. — To 
Surgeons. &c., 13. — pay of the army, 14. 
— intercotirse with the enemy, 18. — to 
extraordinary powers vested in Comman- 
der-in-Chief, &c., 21. — ordering 500 men 
to Billingsport, 63. — complimenting mi- 
litia of New Jersey, 98. — requisition for 
4000 militia, 99. — relative to clothing, 
106. • — to engrossers. 111. — respecting 
movements of enemy, 116. — in relation 
to currency and finance, 215, 240, 258, 
270, 274, 277, 352.— calling for rein- 
forcements, &c., 231, 297. — in relation to 
supplies. 266, 278. — transmitting thanks- 
giving proclamation, 291. — address of, to 
the states, 297. — complaining of non- 
attendance of members, 249, 359, 361. — ■ 
transmitting Indian treaties, 362. 

Collins. Isaac, Letter to Council, respect- 
ing article in the New Jersey Gazette, 
199. 

Committee of Co-operation. Letters from, 
130, 132, 140, 225, 233, 239, 244, 248. 

Committee of Safety. Resolves of, for the 
defence of New York, 4. 

Cook. Lieut. Thomas, 263. 

Cousins. Capt. John, 263. 

Covenhoven. John, 18. 

Covenhoven. Capt. Jacob, 263. 

Craig. Captain John, 92. 

Cumberland County. Inhabitants of, hold- 
ing intercourse with the enemy, 89. — • 
Business in Courts of, 135. 

Ciirlis. John, of Shrewsbury, Accused of 
participation in intercepting a despatch, 
34. — To be appreliended, 56. 

DeHart. Jolin, Acceptance of Cliief Jas- 
ticeship, 11. 

DeHart. Col. Wm., 20. 

Delaware. Divisions of Islands, &c., in, 
between N. J. and Penn., 289, 300, 322. 

Desertere. I.«tter from Gen. Washington 
respecting them, 23. — Action of Congress 
relative to, 224. 



366 



INDEX. 



Dickiiifson. Gen. Philemon, Letter from, 
requesting to be relieved. 30. — Accepts 
commission as JMajor General. 73. — 
On puiolie aflairs, 84. — On the condition 
of the militia. 280. 

Diiyckink. Colonel, Sectired, 54. 

Egg Harbor. Suspicious vessel off, 61. — 
Tlion^'lit to be invested by the enemy, 68. 

Elizabeihtown. Position of affiiirs at, 9, 
117.— Prisoiiers at, 78. 91, 98, 153. 

Ellis. Major William. 263. 

Elmer. Jonathan. Lellei from, on retiring 
from Congress, 109, 128. 

Embargo, 218. 

Engro.<sers. Complained of. 111,132,133,140. 

Essex County. 3Iililia of, 81. 

Ewing. 3Iajor, 89. 

Fell. John, Letter from, complaining of 
non-attendance of his coUeague.s in Con- 
gress, 141. — On public affiiirs,204. 

Flower. Col. Benjamin. Letter from, re- 
resjjecting Andover Furnace, 114. 

Forman. S., 19. 

Forman. (ienl. David, 80, 104. 

Franklin. Benjamin, Lejter from, to Robert 
Morris, relative to financial arrangements 
abroad, 322. 

Frelinghuysen. Col. Fred., Letter from, on 
public alhiirs. 9.'). — Willi prisoners sent to 
Priiiceliin, y-(. — ^Iciilioned. 141, 176. — 
Letter from, respecting services as mem- 
ber of Congress. 155. 

Giflbrd. Capt. Wm. B.. 263. 

Gloucester County, .^lilitia in ordered to- 
wards Philadelphia, 100. 

Grey. Major, 16. 

Hackensack. Suspiciotis persons in, 7. — 
Post-rider between it and New York, 93. 

Halsey. Luther, 32. 

Hancock. John, President of Congress, 
Letters from, 6, 13, 14, 18, 21. 63, 98, 99, 
106. Ill, 116. 

Hanson. John. President of Congress, 
Letter from, 296. 

Hay. Major, 263. 

Hayes. Major Samuel. 75, 81, 82, 86. 

Hazard. Ebenezer, Li relation to Hacken- 
sack post-rider. 93. 

Heard. Gen. Nathaniel. 45. 69, 74. 

Heath. CJeneral W., Address of. in behalf 
of ofll-Jers, to General Washmgton, 334. 
— Gen. W.'s answer. 337. 

Heavland. Lieut. C'harles, 326. 

Hedden. Joseph, Jr., Letter from, with 
names of "Tory women," 72, 82. — On 
the condition of Newark. 76. — With 
names of prisoners in Newark and Eliz- 
abelhtiiwn. 78. — With prisoners from 
Newark, 83. 

Henry. Patrick. Letter from, 360. 

Holmes. John, 19. 

Holmes. Col. Benjamin, Resigns his com- 
mission, 129. 

Holmes. Lieut. Jonathan, 263. 

Howell. Lewis, 32. 



Hopkiiison. Francis, Letter from, respect- 
ing John Curbs, 56. 

Hunlertloii County. Militia of. 95. — Gov- 
ernor Peiin confined in 101. — Business in 
Courts of, 135. 

Huntington. Samuel, President of Con- 
gress, Letters from, 215, 231. 240, 258, 
266, 270, 274, 277, 278. 

Houston. Wm. H., Letter from, respecting 
business before Congress, 191, 200. 204, 
217, 224. — Giving information of surren- 
der of Charleston, 221. 

Jones. Capt. David, Recommended for 
Major, 24. 

Kelsey. Enos, With return of clothing, 
lie wanted for the troops, 183. 

Kennedy. Arcliibald, Application for pa- 
role, 12. — Apprehensions respecting, 108, 
153. 

Lee. General, 87. 

Lee. Arthur, Commissioner at Madrid, 
Proceedings in Congress in relation to his 
recall, 191. 

Little. Lieut. Thomas, 263. 

Livingston. Governor, Letter from, to Vice 
Pres't of Penn. Council of Safety, rela- 
ting to prisoners, 32. — Orders to General 
Winds, 80. — Letter to General Washing- 
ton, 81. — Ordering militia to oppose pro- 
gress of enemy towards Philadelphia, 
100. — -To President of Congress in rela- 
tion to Gov. Penn and Chief Justice 
Chew of Pennsylvania, 101. — Transmit- 
ting lettei-s, 123. — Relative to organiza- 
tion of militia, 175. — The insufliciency of 
his pay, 294. — On liis election as Gov- 
ernor, 348, 351. 

Livingston. Robert R., Letter from, trans- 
mitting provisional treaty of peace, 330. 

Lloyd. Lieut. Bateman, 263. 

Lowery. Col., 24. 

Lowery. Captain, 87. 

Macomb. Mr., Taken prisoner, 86. 

Manly. Captain. 87. 

3Iaryland. Tories in, 27. 

Massachusetts. Measures of Legislature of, 
regulating prices. &c., 28. 

Maxwell. Col. Wm., Letter from, respect- 
ing the clothing of the troops, 103. — As 
General, presenting the grievances of the 
troops, 146, 159. — In relation to public 
affiiirs. &c., 151. 

Mc( 'loud. Captain, A prisoner on parole, 
1.53. 

McKean. Thomas, President of Congress, 
Letter from, 291. 

McWhort^r. Rev. Alex'r, Letter from, 
transmitting names of ofiicers for militia 
of Newark. 58. 

Miillin. Thomas, President of Congress, 
Letter from, 349. 

Monmouth. Suspicious persons in, 7. 

3Iorris County. Militia of, 81, 94. 

Morris. Judge, Letter from, relating to pro- 
ceedings at Susse.x Court, 63. 



INDEX. 



36' 



Morris. Robert, Letters trom, on the finan- 
ces and accounts, 282, 318. 320. 332, 340, 
242. — In relation to supplies, 287. 

Munn. Lieut. John, 263. 

Newark. Officers of militia recommended, 
53. — Women of, whose husbands were 
with the enemy, 72, 82. — Ceitain of them 
removed, 75. — Situation of. June 1777, 
76. — Prisoners at, 78, 84. ■ — ■ Uneasiness 
at, respecting Captain Kennedy, 103. 

New Brunswick. Prisoners taken near, 
54, 57. 60. 

Newcomb. Brig. Gen. Silas, 89, 

New York. Mea,«ures for defence of, 4, 6. 
— General, commanding at, to Provincial 
Congress, 7. — Governor of, on outrages 
committed on Long Island, 185. — Pro- 
ceedings of Legislature upon prices, 195. 

Officers. Memorials to Legislature of, be- 
longing to Jersey brigade, 143. 156, 157. 
— Comments of Gen. Washington on 
their grievances, 161, 166. — Memorial (..f, 
to Gen. Washington, 164. — Imprisoned 
on Long Island, 263. — Half pay author- 
ized by Congress, 267. — Letter of Gene- 
ral Washington to Congress, respecting 
grievances, 333. — Address of, to Gen. 
Washinsrton, 334. 

Osman. Benjamin, 32, 263. 

Farainus. Persons accused of taking tea 
from, 69. 

Parsons. Lieut. John, 263. 

Paterson. William, 79. — letter from, on 
public matters, 86. — In relation to pris- 
oners in Morris, &c., 107. — Declining ap- 
pointment of Delegate to Congress, 269. 

Paul. James, 263. 

Penn. Gov., of Pennsylvania, confined in 
Hunterdon County, 101. 

Pennsylvania. Embargo law of, 200. — 
Case of sloop Active in, 203. — Division 
of Islands, &c., in Delaware bay and 
river, 289, 300, 322. 

Pettit. Charles, Letter from, relating to 
public records, 47.. — Transmitting forms, 
&c., 67. — On public aflhirs. 69. — 3Ien- 
tioned, 88. — As Qr. Master Gen., in rela- 
tion to forage. 123. 

Pickering. Timothy, Quarter Mr. General, 
Letter from, relative to forage,264. 

Polhimus. Lieut. Tobias, 263. 

Prices. Regulation of. Measures of Mas- 
sachusett-s, 28. — Minutes of Commission- 
ers, therefor, 34. — Recommended, 133. — 
Measures of New York respecting. 195. 
■ — Measures of Congress, 204. 214. — Pro- 
ceedings of Convention for. 212. 

Prisoners on Long Island. Sufferings of, 
260.— Memorial from, 261. 

Putnam. Gen. Israel, Letter from, with 
prisoners taken at New Brunswick, 57. 

Raritan. Prisoners taken on, 59, 88. 

Kumsey. Benjamin, and Wm. Smith. Let- 
ter from, relating to a Mr. Campbell, 50. 

Scott. Capt., 17. 



Schanck. John, Reconunended for Adju- 
tant, 24. 

Scudder. Nathaniel, 142. — Letter from, on 
public affairs, 119, 204. 

Seely. Col. Silvanus, 91, 246, 254, 

Sergeant. Jonathan D., Letter from, re- 
questing to be permitted to resign his seat 
in Congress, 25.— 3Ientioned, 27. 

Shrieve. Colonel Israel, 16, 31" 

Shute. Capt., 17. 

Shute. William, 32. 

Skinner. Abra'm, Commissary of Prison- 
ers. Letter I'rom, 260. 

Smith. Wm., and Benj. Rumsey. letter 
from, relating to a Mr. Cainpbeii, 5o. 

Smock. Col. John, 263. 

Smock. Capt. Barns., 263. 

Smock. Henry. 263. 

Smyth. John, Treasurer, &c., 1, 2, 3. 

Spencer. Col. Oliver, 22. 

Springfield. Enemy at, '^33. 

Siaten Island. Arrival of the enemy at, 8. 
— Affair on, 95. 

Stevens. John. 3, 269. 280. 

Steuben. Baron, Letter from, relative to 
purchase of land in Bergen, 358. 

Stout. I\Jajor Cornelius, Recommended for 
Lieut. Col., 24. 

Stout. Lieut. Abra'm., 263. 

Sullivan. James, Letter from, relating to 
an act of the Lcgislatiu-e of Massachu- 
setts for regulating prices, &c., 28. 

Sullivan. General, fc5. 

Suspected Persons in IMonmouth and Hack- 
ensack. 7. 

Sussex (^'ounty. Persons in, enlisting men 
for the enemy. 46, 47. — Proceedings of 
Court held there, 63. — Prisoners in, 77. — 
Militia of, 81. 

Supplies. Scarcity of, in Bergen, 154, 256, 

Symmes. Chief Justice John C., 63. — Let- 
ters from, respecting prisoners in Sussex 
County, 77. — Referring to persons tried 
in Hunterdon and Cumberland, 135. — 
Relative to complaints of soldiers. 2J0. 

Taylor. Edward, Complained of, 81. — 
Letter from, 96. 

Taylor. Major John, Letter from, with 
prisoners from Raritan, 59. — And New 
Brunswick, 60. 

Taylor. Col. John, Letter from, in relation 
to the condition of the militia. 177. 

Taylor, Col. George, 18. — Refuses to take 
the required oath, 19. 

Thaidvsgiving proclamation, 291. 

Thompson. Benj., Commissioner of Ac 

counts. Letter from, 35o. 
Thompson. Andrew. 263. 
Treasury of East Jersey. Removal of, 1, 

2. 3. 
Tucker. Samuel, 1,2. 3. 
Van Brunt. Major llcndrick, 263. 
Virginia. Action of, for the regulation of 

trade, 360. 
Wade. Francis, 52, 53. 



368 



JNDEX. 



Washington. C^neral, liCtters from, 23, 
54, 104. 161, 166, 172, 173, 181. 187. 206, 
207, 219. 223, 235. 236,238.242.246,254, 
256, 303, 306. 310, 312, 317, 333, 337.— 
Conduct of. adverted to, 26, 204. 

Webster. Capt. John. 88. 

Whitlock. Lieut. James, 263. 

Wilson. James, 34. 

Williamson. Brig. Gen. Matthias, Accept- 
ance of commissions, &c., 9. 

Winds. Gen. William, 80.— On the posi- 



tion of officers at Elizabethtown, Jnne 
1778, 117. 

Witherspoon. Dr., 120. 141, 204. 

Woodward. Jesse, of Monmouth, His ex- 
amination, 51. — Sent to the Coimcil of 
Safety. 53. 

Woodbridge. Enemy's landing on Neck, 
92. 

Wyckoff. Col. Ocky. 263. 

Zabriskie. Col. John, 11, 358. 






